Music
New Galaxy
A Sound Out of This World
Interview and photos by:
Laura Bennett
Founded in July 2013 in Charleston, SC, New Galaxy is already making their mark on the music scene. The band consists
of six individuals: Ryan Janeiro Alston- 25 (founder/male vocalist), Jasmaine Smalls- 26 (aka Stella Rae, female vocalist),
Justin Harper -27 (bass), Richard Freeman -21 (guitar), Trystan Simmons-26 (keys), Shelton Desaussure -29, (drums) have
already created a reputation for a memorable live experience and signature sound. With their blend of R&B, hip hop, rock,
funk and soul, they are sure to draw in all types of music lovers. They came together for one common goal, to bring the best
of several musical planets in alignment. Winners of 105.5 The Bridge’s Last Band Standing Contest 2013, it is clear this band
is passionate about what they do. They competed against three local bands, one being eliminated after each round. Judging
included crowd participation, originality, stage presence, and overall performance. As the winner of this contest, they received
$1,000 Guitar Center gift card, a 3 song recording, home-grown rotation on 105.5 The Bridge, and headlining gigs at Wild
Wing Café. I sat down with them to learn more about how they got started and where they are headed.
Please tell our readers how New Galaxy got started.
Ryan Janeiro, founder and lead male vo