Into the Deep

Released in 2015, Into the Deep marks a pivotal moment in Galactic’s discography where the band fully embraced their role as curators and producers. Following the success of their previous collaborative efforts, this eighth studio album leans heavily into a 'vocalist-per-track' format, featuring a diverse roster including Mavis Staples, Macy Gray, and JJ Grey. This shift moved the band away from the 'jam band' label and toward a more focused, contemporary R&B and soul-funk hybrid. Recorded in New Orleans and produced by Ben Ellman and Robert Mercurio, the album captures the essence of the city's 'second line' tradition while utilizing modern studio techniques to ensure the low-end hits with 21st-century impact. It notably reached #1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart, cementing Galactic's status as the premier ambassadors of modern New Orleans funk. The inclusion of Brushy One String highlights the band's penchant for finding unique, raw talent and integrating it into their sophisticated arrangements.