I agree with finding new people to hop on the Umphtrain
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I’m really curious what has prompted this, setlist writing, as I alluded in the Jville setlist thread, seems to have changed in recent years to rotating more songs, with less emphasis on newer songs, and jams in slots they don’t usually come. It’s been great for an older fan to see, just wonder what discussion or decisions may have led to it.
I honestly put my bets on Joel leading the charge on this. He seems to be the only one that really actually tries to tap into social medias and read what people are saying. Some/most of the guys seem to almost try to stay away from all of that, which I dont necessarily blame them for (a musician isnt going to play inspired unless its something they actually want to play). But at the same time, the attendance and overall engagement is almost at an all time low and i dont think theres anyone denying it at this point.
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Encores are dumb, regardless of what band it is.
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It’s a classic scenario of “nothing changes if nothin’ changes”. Gotta get back to what you KNOW works and stick to what makes them one of the greatest live shows in da biz. Gotta play innovative and the setlists and jamming have reflected a change of tone. They’re def doing some of their best work right now. The smoke should attract some gn00bs, they’ll get it back.
They’ve always been a niche band, and thats ok! Now, lean into it, dammit!
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QFT
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Joel has always been the best improv-er in the group. Bayliss can be when he’s not being father time, which is increasingly less so. Jake doesn’t seem to rely on his usual crutches of recent years (wankery, chugs).
It’s refreshing.
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Absolutely agree. Obligatory encore breaks are annnoying. Appreciate that most Billy Strings shows I’ve seen he’s played right up till the end.
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@hbbubblebath alter ego?
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Hahahahaha
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I love the Front Porch hype. But covers served their purpose for me when I was first getting into them. I like them still but ultimately I’m chasing 40 minute segments and trippy prog prov.
Been saying this for years. I hate them.
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The worst take I’ve ever heard on so many levels.
How dare their egos get in the way of playing the songs they wrote?!!! If you are going for the covers go to your local bar instead. Much cheaper and less wooks.
This makes me irrationally angry.
All that said, I agree with the better encores part. I don’t think any of that has anything to do with why no one cares about UM anymore though…
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Also can someone tell me when they were playing 2 covers every night?! 2008?
I read that thread on Reddit on LSD the other night and I feel like that comment was cherry-picked out of some other takes that had some decent points. It’s worth a read.
Honestly I agree 100% with this take
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Wow, they nailed it
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Everytime
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It wasn’t @UnCommon_5 for them to play 2 covers back then.
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I feel like this is a very significant explanation as to why UM’s popularity has declined