Music: Umphrey’s McGee, Mantis

Thursday, February 5, 2009

The genre of “jam band” takes on new meaning when applied to Umphrey’s McGee. The six-piece group based out of Chicago takes a different approach to their music than the typical Grateful Dead or Allman Brothers improv. Umphrey’s is immaculate in their technique and sound, and original in their song development and creation.

With a massive fan base, thanks to more than 10 years of aggressive touring across the country, the group shows a new level of maturity and musical creativity on their fourth studio album, Mantis.

Mantis was written entirely in the studio—a new technique for Umphrey’s, who typically road tests their songs before releasing them on studio albums. The result is interesting. Though Mantis lacks the familiar euphoric and lose jams found on earlier Umphrey’s albums, it boasts an array of incredibly well structured and thickly layered songs that leave listeners refreshed with a good dose of originality.

Highlights on the album include the rock symphony that is “Mantis,” the album’s title track. The song is filled with incredible transitions between glorious harmonic high-points and mellow, funky grooves. Guitarist Jake Cininger’s ability to take the music in new directions with his tremendous guitar work is also noteworthy throughout the track.

“Cemetery Walk” is another great song. A creative and rhythmic piano/guitar riff is developed in every imaginable way on the track, and guitarist Brendan Bayliss’ vocals are excellent, as well.

Overall, the album is awesome. While long-time Umphrey’s fans might be surprised by the new, more strictly structured tunes, they will soon realize that Umphrey’s stays true to their roots on Mantis by creating a truly original and head-banging piece of art.

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