Galactic is one of New Orleans’ highest profile funk-jazz bands, performing and recording with musicians from every musical realm as well as taking the helm of the venerable nightclub Tipitina’s. The band has evolved from its New Orleans roots to a more electronics, hip-hop driven sound, but stays well within the greater funk groove, to the delight of audiences world-wide.

Galactic was founded in 1994 by two school chums, guitarist Jeff Raines and bassist Robert Mercurio, who ended up in New Orleans to attend college and fell in love with the city’s funky rhythms. The band was originally an octet (Galactic Prophylactic), soon evolving into today’s lineup, which also includes keyboardist Rich Vogel, sax/harp player Ben Ellman, and monster drummer Stanton Moore. Vocal duties were first handled by the late Theryl “Houseman” DeClouet; since DeClouet departed the band in 2004, Galactic has toured with a variety of singers ranging from Juvenile, Cyril Neville, and Erica Falls to the current vocalist, Anjelika "Jelly" Joseph.

Galactic’s music has matured over the years, incorporating loops and other electronic tools as well as components of modern hip-hop and bounce, yet retaining that New Orleans funk groove. The group tours frequently, headlining at venues and festivals – including the popular Jam Cruise – around the world. Their guest stars are legion, ranging from Boyfriend, Mavis Staples and Macy Gray to the Rebirth Brass Band, Big Freedia, and Big Chief Bo Dollis of the Wild Magnolias Mardi Gras Indian tribe.

Galactic has recorded a dozen studio albums, including the 2019 release, “Already Ready Already.” They have appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and Conan with Conan O’Brien, and won numerous awards.

In 2018, the band collectively purchased the legendary nightclub, Tipitina’s. The band has performed often at the venue throughout their career, and continue to headline at the club today.