Known for their improvisational rock, Umphrey’s McGee is the
obscure Brendan Bayliss on guitar and vocals; fiery Jake Cinninger
on guitar, Moog, synthesizers and vocals; complementary Joel
Cummins on keyboards and vocals; solid Andy Farag on percussion;
energetic Kris Myers on drums and vocals and charismatic Ryan
Stasik on bass.
Self-claimed A.D.D. sufferers, this diversely talented group
infuses pop, classic rock, jazz and funk into their
make-it-up-as-you-go style and it results in imaginative and unique
melodies. They’ve performed at numerous festivals such as South by
Southwest, New Orleans Jazz and the Wakarusa Festival (located in
Lawrence, Kansas, my home state). Described as “… a band
that likes the audience to think while they’re dancing,” the
expectation is that each song will be expressive both lyrically and
musically.
“Jajunk” is a frantic piece, rock-driven with multi-dimensional
chords overlapping and layering, developing an original sound.
“Bullhead City” is a country tune with Cinninger as lead vocalist.
It is six minutes of concise vocals and a blend of world influence.
“In The Kitchen” has quick, simplistic vocals with punk-rock music
that twists and turns into soft rock. This song cruises through
various forms of rock: punk, soft rock and a smattering of funk and
alternative.
“Miss Tinkle’s Overture” is dedicated to and originated by Joel
Cummins. Evidently based on an experience of bad aim on the tour
bus – he accidentally peed on Stasik’s sleeping bag — the song
starts with a frenzy and frenetically challenges your brain to keep
up, leaving your ears roaring.
Frank Zappa wasn’t there, but he might as well have written
“Robot World”, an enraged, somewhat chaotic view of McGee’s musical
world. It is tiresome, and since I never liked Zappa, why would I
like this song? But “Pequod” is a welcomed relief; it is still
multi-layered, as is obviously this group’s style, but it is softer
and gentler. It is also clever, but more open for appreciation.
Supposedly Umphrey McGee’s music is “for parched heads out there
begging for some depth and complexity,” but I must disagree. I
think it dehydrates the listener. Although the music is agile and
able to twist and pervert in many different directions at one time,
there is no time for it to sink in or for thought to take place. I
became exhausted by the frustrating pace — I acknowledge the
creative side of this band and that their talent exists, but the
music is not for me.
On the other hand, if you’re a fan of Phish, Frank Zappa or are
an A.D.D. sufferer, this album could be an explosion of
entertainment.
[For more information, visit
www.umphreys.com]
