Antibalas

The band's leaders say Antibalas relies on two factors to play well: tropical temperatures and a relaxed pace. The ensemble's latest album is simply titled Antibalas.

It's one thing for 11 musicians to make a big sound — and, sure, Antibalas does that — but what stands out is the subtlety of this ensemble; the way the horns weave in and out of each other, sometimes complementing and at other times inspiring and creating musical conversation between players.

The rhythm-intensive Afrobeat ensemble is back with its first album in nearly five years.