The Budos Band

The Budos Band is a pivotal instrumental ensemble from Staten Island, New York, that redefined the boundaries of the Daptone Records sound. Formed in 2005 from an after-school jazz program, the group evolved from a traditional Afrobeat revivalist act into a singular entity that blends Ethiopian jazz (Ethio-jazz), 1960s soul, and 1970s hard rock.

Their sound identity is defined by a massive horn section - led by Jared Tankel's aggressive baritone sax - and a rhythm section that prioritizes heavy, repetitive grooves over soloistic virtuosity. Over a career spanning two decades, they have moved away from the 'sweet' soul influences of their debut toward a 'doom-rock' aesthetic, particularly evident on albums like 'Burnt Offering' and 'V'. They occupy a unique cultural position as the bridge between the crate-digging funk community and the stoner rock/metal scene. Critically, they are praised for their uncompromising analog production and their ability to maintain a consistent, dark atmosphere that feels cinematic and cohesive. Their influence is felt across the modern instrumental funk landscape, serving as a primary reference point for the 'dark soul' movement.