The meticulously restored Ramova Theater in Chicago—a century-old movie house reborn as an 1,800+ capacity live music and event venue—recently hosted a phenomenal double-bill of funk veterans: New Mastersounds and Galactic.
New Mastersounds: An Extended Chicago Farewell
For Chicago fans, the night offered an extended goodbye to one of the UK’s most celebrated funk outfits. Formed in Leeds, England, in 1999 by guitarist Eddie Roberts, drummer Simon Allen, and bassist Pete Shand, with Joe Tatton on keys since 2007, New Mastersounds returned to extensive U.S. touring in 2024 after a hiatus dating back to early 2020. This Chicago performance, along with two subsequent shows at Garcia’s Chicago, was part of their recently announced “TTFN (Ta-Ta For Now)” farewell international tour – marking the conclusion of their career as a touring band.
New Mastersounds members:
- Simon Allen (drums)
- Eddie Roberts (guitar)
- Pete Shand (bass)
- Joe Tatton (keys)
Galactic: 30+ years of New Orleans Funk & Groove
Hailing from New Orleans, Galactic brought their legendary groove to the stage. The band was initially formed in 1994 by college friends guitarist Jeff Raines and bassist Robert Mercurio, and quickly solidified their core lineup with world-renowned drummer Stanton Moore, sax man Ben Ellman, and the soulful keyboards of Rich Vogel.
Heavily influenced by the vibrant New Orleans funk and R&B traditions, Galactic has continually evolved, incorporating elements of hip-hop, rock, and other genres into their signature sound. The band’s current configuration features the commanding vocals of Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph and the electric energy of Eric Gordon on trumpet, filling the traditionally rotating roles of vocals and brass.
Galactic members:
Robert Mercurio * Bass
Jeff Raines * Guitar
Eric Gordon – Trumpet
Richard Vogel * Keyboards
Stanton Moore * Drums/Percussion
Ben Ellman * Sax / Harmonica
Anjelika Joseph “Jelly” * Vocals
