I think he has got a case here.
band
Noun:
A flat, thin strip or loop of material put around something.
A group of people who have a common interest or purpose.
Verb:
Surround (an object) with something in the form of a strip or ring, typically for reinforcement or decoration: "doors are banded with iron".
(of people or organizations) Form a group for a mutual purpose: "local people banded together to fight the company".