Known for their improvisational rock, Umphrey’s McGee is the
\nobscure Brendan Bayliss on guitar and vocals; fiery Jake Cinninger
\non guitar, Moog, synthesizers and vocals; complementary Joel
\nCummins on keyboards and vocals; solid Andy Farag on percussion;
\nenergetic Kris Myers on drums and vocals and charismatic Ryan
\nStasik on bass.<\/p>\n
Self-claimed A.D.D. sufferers, this diversely talented group
\ninfuses pop, classic rock, jazz and funk into their
\nmake-it-up-as-you-go style and it results in imaginative and unique
\nmelodies. They’ve performed at numerous festivals such as South by
\nSouthwest, New Orleans Jazz and the Wakarusa Festival (located in
\nLawrence, Kansas, my home state). Described as “\u2026 a band
\nthat likes the audience to think while they’re dancing,” the
\nexpectation is that each song will be expressive both lyrically and
\nmusically.<\/p>\n
“Jajunk” is a frantic piece, rock-driven with multi-dimensional
\nchords overlapping and layering, developing an original sound.
\n“Bullhead City” is a country tune with Cinninger as lead vocalist.
\nIt is six minutes of concise vocals and a blend of world influence.
\n“In The Kitchen” has quick, simplistic vocals with punk-rock music
\nthat twists and turns into soft rock. This song cruises through
\nvarious forms of rock: punk, soft rock and a smattering of funk and
\nalternative.<\/p>\n
“Miss Tinkle’s Overture” is dedicated to and originated by Joel
\nCummins. Evidently based on an experience of bad aim on the tour
\nbus – he accidentally peed on Stasik’s sleeping bag — the song
\nstarts with a frenzy and frenetically challenges your brain to keep
\nup, leaving your ears roaring.<\/p>\n
Frank Zappa wasn’t there, but he might as well have written
\n“Robot World”, an enraged, somewhat chaotic view of McGee’s musical
\nworld. It is tiresome, and since I never liked Zappa, why would I
\nlike this song? But “Pequod” is a welcomed relief; it is still
\nmulti-layered, as is obviously this group’s style, but it is softer
\nand gentler. It is also clever, but more open for appreciation.<\/p>\n
Supposedly Umphrey McGee’s music is “for parched heads out there
\nbegging for some depth and complexity,” but I must disagree. I
\nthink it dehydrates the listener. Although the music is agile and
\nable to twist and pervert in many different directions at one time,
\nthere is no time for it to sink in or for thought to take place. I
\nbecame exhausted by the frustrating pace — I acknowledge the
\ncreative side of this band and that their talent exists, but the
\nmusic is not for me.<\/p>\n
On the other hand, if you’re a fan of Phish, Frank Zappa or are
\nan A.D.D. sufferer, this album could be an explosion of
\nentertainment.<\/p>\n