ALBUM REVIEW: Irma Thomas and Galactic Join Forces on the New Big Easy Classic ‘Audience With the Queen’

The pairing of Irma Thomas, known as “The Soul Queen of New Orleans,” and the veteran Big Easy band Galactic goes so smoothly that it’s hard to believe they haven’t been collaborating for decades. In fact, she recorded one song with the group in 2010, but this is their first full-length joint venture. Better late than never, because the irresistible Audience With the Queen is a funky and thought-provoking delight.

Now a young 84 years old, Thomas boasts a resume stretching back to the late ’50s, including such landmark recordings as “It’s Raining” and “Ruler of My Heart” (which Otis Redding appropriated for his single “Pain in My Heart”). And “Time Is on My Side,” covered by The Rolling Stones, resulted in the classic rock band’s first US top 10 hit in 1964. While still commanding, Thomas’ voice is inevitably a tad rougher and deeper than in her youth. Still, she remains recognizably and resolutely herself — an anti-diva of rare poise and restraint who never oversells a song.

Audience With the Queen brims with love (and out-of-love) songs, political statements, and life-affirming pep talks. “How Glad I Am” is a sweet cover of Nancy Wilson’s 1964 hit with a strong gospel vibe, while the thumping “Over You” tries to close the book on a bad romance, as Thomas insists, “I got too much to do to be sittin’ here crying over you.” The stomping “Lady Liberty” unleashes a declaration of outrage as she exclaims, “Injustice was and is the fuel that feeds the flame…There’s got to be a better way than this.”

Elsewhere, Thomas promotes positive thinking as the antidote to a world on fire. In the exuberant “Where I Belong,” she proclaims, “I’m gonna make the best of the time I still have.” And in the slinky groove of “Peace in My Heart,” she advises, “You better just enjoy the ride.” Although Galactic’s ace players, including keyboardist Rich Vogel and sax man Ben Ellman, can start a fire on short notice, they focus on building a solid foundation for Thomas here, providing tantalizing fills when the situation requires.

It can seem as if great artists pass away almost daily, inspiring heartfelt, albeit belated, celebrations of their achievements. However, Audience With the Queen gives people the change to publicly appreciate some of these gifted performers when they’re still around to enjoy the acclaim. Here’s hoping the Queen and her court book a return engagement soon.

Galactic and Irma Thomas’ Audience With the Queen is out April 11, 2025 via Tchuop-Zilla Records.