Galactic Recruit Cyril Neville and Trombone Shorty for 'Heart of Steel' -- Song Premiere

New Orleans jam band and music-fest staple Galactic have compiled a tribute to their embattled hometown. Recorded live at Tipitinas, 'The Other Side of Midnight: Live in New Orleans' features some of the Big Easy's most legendary performers including Cyril Neville and Trombone Shorty.

"This tune was written before Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. After the storm, the song took on a whole new meaning," bassist Robert Mercurio tells Spinner. "Having a 'heart of steel' struck a chord with the way we were feeling. So we originally recorded it with New Orleans soul legend, Irma Thomas. For this live recording we recorded with longtime tour mate and New Orleans legend Cyril Neville."

Listen to 'Heart of Steel'


The tune showcases several rip-roaring harmonica solos, and you can tell from the audience reaction that Galactic was kicking some interstellar behind. 'The Other Side of Midnight: Live in New Orleans' will be released via Anti- Records on May 3.