Galactic @ Vogue Theatre, March 4
Galactic brought their Mardi Gras parade styled tour to Indianapolis’s Vogue Theatre for an authentic bayou blast of musical voodoo and hoodoo. Hot on the heels of their most recent release, Carnivale Electricos, the band rode into town ready to share fresh songs, special guests and their trademark sound with the near capacity crowd. Over the last decade and a half, Galactic has proven that their brand of New Orleans funk, with its blend of Brazilian, Jamaican and hip hop influences is a true crowd pleaser. From the opening drum roll by funk drummer supreme Stanton Moore, to the last blast from the horns of saxophonist Ben Ellman and trombone guru and special guest Corey “Bone Money” Henry the crowd was in their hands, as they tossed out tight bursts of funk like beads to the eager fans.
The city of Indianapolis itself was gripped with a surprising cold snap, with Mother Nature giving one last gasp of wintery weather to remind folks it was still, in fact, March. While outside the theater the cold winds blew, inside a warm glow was shared by the early arriving fans. Local act the Blue Moon Revue was on hand to further warm up the crowd with their blues, down and dirty sound. Fronted by guitarists Matt Marshall and Dave Sullivan, along with long time writing partner Andy Salge, the band showcased an emotionally charged set of fiery slabs of soulful tunes. Particularly impressive were the vocals of Marshall, who voice calls forth comparisons of Robert Cray’s earliest work. Members of Galactic could be seen in the stage wings, clearly enjoying their openers handiwork.
