Music

'it's not us' - Umphrey's McGee [Full Album Stream + Zumic Review]

Prog Rockers Return For 11th Studio Album
Francesco Marano

by Francesco Marano

Published January 12, 2018

Progressive jam rock band Umphrey's McGee display their impressive musicianship and versatility on their new studio album it’s not us, released today. Featuring 11 tracks, the LP certainly spans a wide variety of musical styles, and each track contributes to the overall record in a way that should please most fans.

Opening with an upbeat 1-2 punch of "The Silent Type" and "Looks," Umphrey's hit the listener with monstrous guitar riffs and driving rhythms. "Whistle Kids" takes a laid-back approach with blues-inspired playing and playful whistling. 

"Half Delayed" sets a hypnotic vibe with delayed guitar, and "Maybe Someday" explores psychedelic territory with airy vocals and larger-than-life vintage rock guitar and drum licks. Arguably the album's most dynamic song is "Remind Me," which starts with a funky groove before shifting to an aggressive tempo with hyper drumming and lightning-fast solos.

A key ingredient for enjoying the album from front-to-back is the cohesiveness of the album as a whole. Now on their 11th studio album, Umph understand what they're doing, and seamlessly work in the tender ballad "You & You Alone," with its acoustic guitar, piano, and heartwarming lyrics. The tempo picks back up with the colorful "Forks" and the jazzy "Speak Up," which features saxophonist Joshua Redman. Closing out the album with vigorous energy are "Piranhas" and "Dark Brush."

It’s not us is a well-balanced album that shows Umphrey's evolving their sound. The songs are full of energy and show a veteran band continuing to push themselves creatively. With exciting live shows fueled by dazzling lighting, it should be fun to watch and hear these new tunes come to life.

Songs we like are "Looks," "The Silent Type," "Half Delayed," "Whistle Kids," "Remind Me," "Speak Up," and  "You & You Alone."

it’s not us is currently available on Amazon.  You can also stream the full LP above.

The band has just begun a North America tour. For concert tickets and more, check out Umphrey McGee's Zumic artist page.

Umphrey's McGee it's not us album cover art

 

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artists
Umphrey’s McGee
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Jamband Prog Rock Psychedelic Rock Rock
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