They are a collaborative band with a unique format and have played together for so long they're telepathic. But though the band hasn't had a lead singer for years, neither is it purely an instrumental group. Galactic is part of a diverse community of musicians, and in their own studio, with Rob Mercurio and Ben Ellman producing, they have the luxury of experimenting. So on their albums, they do something that's unusual in rock but not so controversial an idea in, say, hip-hop: they create something that's a little like a revue, a virtual show featuring different vocalists (mostly from New Orleans) and instrumental soloists each taking their turn on stage in the Galactic sound universe. Returning to The Ridgefield Playhouse stage, with guest vocalist Erica Falls, Galactic is back for more on Sunday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m.
The jazz-funk jam band from New Orleans has been captivating audiences for 20 years with their signature free form fusion of jazz, hip-hop, electronica and rock. Co-founded by renowned drummer Stanton Moore whose trademark sound Modern Drummer aptly described as "jazz-meets-Bonham," Galactic has thousands of concerts, acclaimed records and major festivals to their credit. This dynamic group has become an undisputed jam band mainstay. Kicking off the night is Argonaut&Wasp - the Brooklyn, New York based band composed of Trey Schibli, Theo Klein, Alec Donkin, Chris Corsico, and Adam November. They make a type of music that’s neither rock nor electronic but nods to both. It’s the band’s unique approach to songwriting that sets them apart. A balancing act between dance floor torque and footloose songwriting chops, the band’s funk renaissance blends the soulful feel of live instrumentation with the innate dance-ability of electronic production.
New Orleans native Erica Falls truly embodies the essence of New Orleans heart and soul through her musical sound. Her music has been influenced by the rich culture of the New Orleans Jazz and Funk scene and performing in New Orleans has attributed to her unique vocal style and stage presence – leading her to become one of the finest female vocalists in New Orleans. She has performed in different venues and festivals globally and has also recorded with the likes of Joe Sample, Dr. John, Sting, Irma Thomas, No Doubt, Joss Stone and world renowned artist such as Bobby Charles, Wardell Quezergue, Clarence Gatemouth Brown, Davell Crawford, ELS, and Nu-Beginnings just to name a few.
Erica Falls is a powerful performer and captivating singer that is a must see during live performances. She is truly a rising star in the genres of soul, funk, and jazz. Erica Falls, a New Orleans songbird, the voice of an angel with plenty of soul.
For tickets ($38) and more information about The Ridgefield Playhouse, call the box office (203) 438-5795, or order online at ridgefieldplayhouse.org. The Ridgefield Playhouse is a not-for-profit performing arts center located at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street, Ridgefield, CT; ridgefieldplayhouse.org.