Galactic returned to the iconic Brooklyn Bowl in Brooklyn, NY on Saturday, January 27, 2024, for the second night of a two-night winter stand that packed quite the punch. This New Orleans, La-based septet sold out the jam band-loving venue, and brought the French Quarter with them, along with plenty of funk and jazz. Neo-soul guitarist and singer Kendra Morris provided support with her band this evening.
The line up for Galactic started with Ben Ellman (saxophone, harmonica), Robert Mercurio (bass), Stanton Moore (drums, percussion), Jeffrey Raines (guitar), Richard Vogal (keyboards), and Eric Gordon (trumpet). Singer Anjelika "Jelly" Joseph was on hand to deliver her powerful vocals.
Brooklyn's own Kendra Morris kicked off the music on this frosty winter evening. She was backed by a guitarist, bassist, and drummer who were all locked in for the entire set. Her moody mix of neo-soul resonated with the packed crowd. Her soft but powerful voice pulled together the melodic blues rock from her talented band. We hope to catch this group again.
The room was packed, and the crowd was fired up after Kendra Morris left the stage. The anticipation built as the band walked down the stairs and onto the stage for what proved to be a raging set of funk and jazz. Jelly commanded the room, with her powerful pipes and wine glass. It felt like the crowd was going to lift through the roof during the funk-fueled Galactic original "Higher and Higher," from Into the Deep.
Towards the end of the set, the band delivered a spot-on cover of "Walking on the Moon" by the Police. Jelly once again for the win with the soulful vocals. The rest of the band showed their truly adeptness with this rock and roll cover.
At the end of the set, the band left the stage, and venue owner Peter Shapiro grabbed the microphone. He shared with the crowd that the Brooklyn Bowl was envisioned and built for Galactic many years ago with a huge smile on his face. He proceeded to hug all members of the band as they entered the stage for the encore.
Galactic brought some seriously high-energy funk and jazz to the Brooklyn Bowl, and are not to be missed in this endless conquest for face-melting music. They are back in action on February 3rd for a hometown show at the legendary Tipitina's in New Orleans, LA. Tickets are available via this link. Please hop on over to their tour page for more dates.