The Vital Groove
Official EPK

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About the Band:
The Vital Groove

J Santi and The Vital Groove are a dynamic trio that merge the soulful intensity of Stevie Ray Vaughan with the desert rock swagger of Queens of the Stone Age, all while umbrella’d by the singer-songwriter prowess of Tom Petty. Fronted by guitarist and vocalist J Santi, with Chris Sussman on bass and Marcus James on drums, the band creates a powerful sound characterized by fiery blues solos, heavy grooves, and hypnotic riffs. Known for their electrifying performances, they bring a fresh edge to blues rock, captivating audiences with their raw energy and modern flair.

The Vital Groove
Band Reviews

Bud Snyder

Grammy award winner with Gregg Allman; Producer for Gov’t Mule; The Allman Brothers Band; and more

This project was amazing to be a part of from the get go. From Prince to Stevie Ray, the genres kept coming. The musical ability is profound! J’s vocal style and songwriting is powerful! Take a listen and enjoy!!! It is a Vital Groove!!!

Raúl Guillermo Jiménez

Siesta Key Music Scene Media / EikonaGrfxs

I don't know if I'm a music expert, but live music is the reason I started SKMS. It's my sanctuary away from the mundane. The first time I heard J Santi solo, his raw talent was obvious - strong guitar work, powerful vocals, and heartfelt songwriting. When I saw him with The Vital Groove (Chris Sussman/Bass, Marcus James/Drums), I knew they had the spark to go national. Their sound blends rock and roll attitude with funk, blues, soul, R&B, Punk, and plenty of edge and some refreshing quirkiness. They've got it all…

Tom Darby

"Bartender Tommy D" Friday Happy Hour 96.5 WSLR-Sarasota's Community Radio

J. provides ferocious guitar licks ala SRV! His voice has the grit of a Southern Rocker, with an occasional hint of "Springsteen". The solid bass and drum playing from Chris and Marcus provide the foundation for which the band can soar! This is a fine first effort from Sarasota-based J. Santi and the Vital Groove. Catch 'em live if you can!

Self Titled Debut Album
J Santi & The Vital Groove

The Vital Groove Digital Album Artwork Back

Born from the energy of the East Coast and the soul of live musicianship, J Santi and the Vital Groove’s debut album is a vibrant blend of blues, rock, funk, and soul. Produced by Bud Snyder (Allman Brothers Band, Gov’t Mule) at Baysound Studios in Sarasota, Florida, the record features standout collaborations with John Hetherington, Dylan DeFeo, Sabrina McClenathan, Zeena Brown, John J. Santiago III, Rafael “Rufus” Silva, and Leify Green. Recorded without a click track, the trio captured an organic feel that honors the classic spirit of their influences. Engineered and mixed by Bob Frank and mastered by Carl Saff for digital and vinyl release, the album fuses J Santi’s New York roots with the creative rebirth he found in Florida. It’s a timeless, heartfelt celebration of groove, connection, and soul.

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