Customer Reviews

Bottom Half

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Let me start by saying that I am an Umphrey's fan. That being said, this review is based entirely on my perceived quality of this album, and not on the quality of the band. This is a B-Sides album, nothing more and nothing less and that is exactly how the boys treated this album. They took what was left from the previous studio sessions and neatly packaged them into a collection of songs, chock full of hyper-production, awkward closures, studio chatter, and a newly arranged recapitulation from the previous album. There is even a second disc full of material that you may listen to once or twice and before tucking it away in the back of the case for the rest of its time in your possession. This isn't to say that the product is completely suspect. There are plenty of treats on this album, especially for those who enjoy hearing the transition from a live setting to the studio. Most notably, the driving instrumental "Great American", the country-laced comforter "Memories of Home", and a tight "Divisions" redux that offers some welcomed nostalgia. Just to name a few. However, please please please do not purchase this if you are new to the band. Start somewhere else, and come to this later if you enjoy the music. The boys made a conscious financial decision with this one, but if you're a fan of the Umph, you definitely will not call if a rip off. Although you may become more thirsty for the next genuine album. KCB

This album is yet another exhibit of extraordinary musical diversity from Umphrey's McGee. The previous album (Safety In Numbers) was a rendering of lyricism and poetry showing that the singer-songwriter thing is a very important aspect of what they do. The Bottom Half shows the strength of UM's diversity through a mixture of acoustic, classical, and electric guitars, incredible percussion, powerful song writing, elegant piano composition, saxophone, banjo (including a notable cameo appearance), strings, and creative production. There is a tendency to compare a new band to a previous or familiar sound. Umphrey's McGee has no comparison--they stand alone as the most diverse sound of the 21st century.

My good friend had pointed this band out to me in one of my music magazines.So I went out and got this CD. WOW!! You talk about interesting meters and great jams with perfection. I put into my car stereo, I almost had an accident! On one song ,the drummer started everything out on a two feel,then without a blink of an eye they were in 6/8 time! Excellent band!With all the SOS bands doing the SOS music ,these guys are quite diverse. I cant even say that! The problem is music today is sounding too techno popish. Or else your favorite singer has gone hip hop (which is a true waste of plastic to make that CD!) Check these guys out,especially if your a musician looking for something fresh! Watch out now they WILL CATCH YOU OFF GUARD! The other excellent CD of theirs is "Anchor Drops"
These both kick! All I can say is excellent! Thank you guys for "stepping up to the plate"!

Not a b-side disc. Bottom Half can hold it's own as one of UM's best.

Although it is not as good an album as Anchor Drops or Safety in Numbers, it is a collection of B-sides and songs they have played live for years. None of the songs were new, many were recorded during the Safety sessions, as the album says. Therefore, it is not a lack of talent that this album is not great, it is the fact that it is no new material, just material released for the first time as studio versions. Umphrey's live is still amazing and they are an extremely talented group. See them live before judging a studio album. The same goes for most jam bands.

Umphrey's Degree, released 2007: Off beat, quirky, yet melodic. Think Dave Matthews Band circa 1996-2002 with a little Grateful Dead mixed in. The cover photo is great, too!

I am a huge UMPH fan for a long time now. This album compiles most of my favorite UMPH songs. They are all great recordings that take your right back to the show. If you haven't seen this band live and you like their material...you have to! This album is one of my favorites but really....I don't dislike any of them. CHECK IT OUT!

I am going to start off by stating that I am simply an average fan writing a review on a band I seriously enjoy listening to. I purchased this CD with high expectations and it delivered. I don't particularly feel this CD is strictly for devoted fans, whether you are a new listener or an old The Bottom Half is a great album to sit back and take pleasure in. I feel as if this album showcases the band's ability to incorporate fresh technology and studio sounds. Umphrey's McGee is a great band and they have the ability to put on an amazing show when seen live. If you are ever near Arkansas in the month of June you should check out Wakarusa which is where they will be playing this year. I feel that this album exemplifies UM by putting forth a quality sound with up-tempo beats and electric vibrations. I highly recommend this CD to anyone who is looking into this band. You will not be disappointed!

Umph's newest album not only displays their newer, more mainstream style, but also catches the group performing some truly classic tunes. Including cameos from some of the best: Joshua Redman, Jeff Coffin, Bela Fleck, and more, disc 1 was the best pull of The Bottom Half. Having said that, disc 2 truly makes this album a must for Umph fans, as it catches them in a raw, completely candid nature. I strongly recommend this work for music listeners of all kinds; You will find something for you in this album.

These are the kinds of songs that a 20 second sample can't convey to the listener. If you like the dave matthews band mixed with king crimson, pink floyd, little feat, the flecktones and the list goes on, this is worth a listen. Safety in numbers(their last CD) didn't do it for me but the Bottom Half does, without spending too much time chasing hit singles and more time creating great album music like Divisions(awesome), Great American, Higgins and the Bottom Half. The second disk isn't much but its a throw in.