Umphrey's McGee - Mantis

Umphrey's McGee's sixth studio album is certainly an evolution of their sound. While still managing to maintain the quick changes and tension/release stylings that made the band who they are, the band is definitely seeking a much more refined sound. Songs like 'Made to Measure' are very catchy and could appeal to a much larger fanbase with a simpler, more lyrical focus and '1394' caters to the more beat oriented fans. On the other hand, the band still put some songs on the album showcasing it's instrumental chops, such as the title track, 'Mantis', and 'Spires' where the group shows off the tightly woven improvisational jams they're most known for. Overall, while I'm not sure if the album really put the band in a "new era", but it certainly is a solid blend of where this band has been progressing to over the last three or four years mixed with their older, more agressive sound.

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