Galactic in Concert
New Orleans collective Galactic has long been a musical powerhouse in their hometown, but they’ve had just as much fun spreading their vibrant, Big Easy–inspired sound to nearly every corner of the country and beyond. The jazz-funk giants exhibit a jam-band–like charm on stage, weaving traditional and modern sounds into songs fit for lazy days in the sun and spirited nights at intimate clubs. Over the years, they’ve been regulars at New Orleans’ beloved music venue Tipitina’s, toured the US multiple times, and made frequent appearances at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, High Sierra Music Festival, and various other jazz and rock events around North America and Europe. When performing in New Orleans, Galactic like to invite a guest or two on stage, including fellow hometown heroes like The Neville Brothers, Dirty Dozen Brass Band and the Soul Rebels Brass Band. On the road, they’ve shared the stage with artists like Jack Johnson, The Roots, Counting Crows, Juvenile, B.B. King, and other notable performers in rock, rap, roots and reggae. Wherever they are, expect a whole lot of soul, sass and brass — and plenty of Mardi Gras merriment.
About Galactic
Galactic’s bold fusion of funk, R&B, jazz, rock, hip-hop and electronic music is irresistible. Drawing from the time-honored traditions of New Orleans’ brass bands, funk pioneers and blues superstars, the group formed in 1994 when childhood friends guitarist Jeff Raines and bassist Robert Mercurio joined drummer Stanton Moore, saxophonist/producer Ben Ellman, organist Rich Vogel and vocalist Theryl DeClouet. Their debut album, 1996’s Coolin’ Off, showcased Galactic’s deep love for New Orleans and its rich jazz heritage. With album number two, 1998’s Crazyhorse Mongoose, they landed on Billboard’s Top Contemporary Jazz Albums chart. Moving into the 21st century, Galactic began experimenting more with their sound, bringing in notable hip-hop producer Dan the Automator on 2003’s Ruckus, collaborating with alternative rap stars like Lyrics Born and Boots Riley on 2007’s From the Corner to the Block, working alongside New Orleans musicians such as Allen Toussaint and Trombone Shorty on 2010’s Ya-Ka-May, incorporating Brazilian dance beats on 2012’s Carnivale Electricos, and inviting veteran vocalists like Macy Gray and Mavis Staples to sing on 2015’s Into the Deep. Since, Galactic has continued to keep themselves — and their fans — on their toes with new sounds, new guests and new ways to keep New Orleans’ celebrated spirit alive.
