HOUSTON — Grupo Fantasma was founded in 2000 in Austin. It consists of Jose Galeano (timbales, vocals), Kino Esparza (vocals, hand percussion), Beto Martinez (guitar), Greg Gonzalez (bass), John Speice (drums), Matthew "Sweet Lou" Holmes (congas), Gilbert Elorreaga (trumpet), Josh Levy (baritone saxophone) and Mark "Speedy" Gonzales (trombone). The band quickly grew, touring around the U.S. and worldwide.
Grupo Fantasma has been praised as one of the most important independent acts in the Latin genre and has continually defied expectations to create one of the most unique musical voices to come out of the United States in the 21st century. In 2011, they garnered further acclaim by winning a Grammy for their self–produced release "El Existential."
Grupo Fantasma has been in the studio working on new songs and will be releasing a few new singles this year. Next year will be the band's 25th anniversary. Grupo Fantasma will go on a U.S. tour to celebrate the new album and milestone anniversary.
The popular, free live music showcase – UHD Thursday Night Concerts – makes its return to Discovery Green this May with weekly performances at 7 p.m. from May 2 through 23. Their lineup of bands range from Latin and country to rock and psychedelic soul. They are spotlighting some of the most talented and talked about musicians in Texas.
The UHD Thursday Night Concerts line-up includes:
• THURSDAY, MAY 2
Headliner: Grupo Fantasma // Opening Act: Grupo Vadenagi
• THURSDAY, MAY 9
Headliner: Theo Lawrence // Opening Acts: Kalu & The Electric Joint, The Creeps
• THURSDAY, MAY 16
Headliner: Vortxz // Opening Acts: Astragal, Blossom Aloe
• THURSDAY, MAY 23
Headliner: Mobley // Opening Acts: Joaquin and The Glowliners, Sugar Joiko
For more information, visit discoverygreen.com/uhdconcerts.