Jazz Standard welcomes the electrifying Michael Leonhart Orchestra (MLO) back to our bandstand for a seventh consecutive monthly appearance! This month, the Orchestra will present the AFROBEAT SUITE Part II featuring members of Antibalas. This genre–crossing 15–piece ensemble features players from such “name” aggregations as the Dap–Kings, the Mingus Big Band, the Maria Schneider Orchestra, and the “Tonight Show” band (The Roots), performing both Leonhart’s original compositions and his stunning arrangements of songs by Wu–Tang, Duke Ellington, and more. “I realized a long time ago that it’s not even about the music you play, it’s the spirit with which you approach it. To me that breaks down the barrier between pop, rock, funk, jazz, classical, abstract, musique concrète — it’s all expression.” (Michael Leonhart)   Michael Leonhart – trumpet, conductor Philip Dizack, Billy Aukstik, Carter Yasutake, Jordan McLean – trumpets Ray Mason – trombone Jeff Nelson – bass trombone John Ellis, Sam Sadigurksy – tenor saxophone Jason Marshall – baritone saxophone Sarah Schoenbeck – bassoon Luke O’Malley – guitar Victor Axelrod – organ Joe Martin – bass Kevin Raczka – drums Elizabeth Pupo Walker – percussion Daniel Freedman – percussion