Freekbass Sits-In With Umphrey’s McGee In Knoxville

Umphrey’s McGee concluded a run of four shows in four nights on Sunday with a stop at the Tennessee Theatre in Knoxville. The band’s first of two sets in Knoxville ended with a Prince cover featuring funk bassist Freekbass taking over for UM bassist Ryan Stasik.

The sextet kicked off the evening with the classic instrumental “The Triple Wide.” Guitarist Brendan Bayliss then led UM on their first “Anchor Drops” since January. The rarities kept coming with just the second 2018 version of “Red Tape” and a wild “Kabump” that spanned nearly 20 minutes and included a “Jimmy Stewart” improvisation with lyrics. “Kabump” eventually gave way to “Intentions Clear” which was followed by “Go To Hell.” Bayliss went on to introduce Freekbass, who replaced Stasik on a cover of Prince’s “Controversy” to close the frame.

Last night’s second set was a giant “Nothing Too Fancy” sandwich. The six-piece opened with an expansive take on the instrumental that saw them explore reggae-tinged and rock-heavy jam spaces. UM then treated fans to the first “Spires” since January 20 and it’s you epic “Seasons.” Jake Cinninger next stepped into the spotlight to lead the group on “Comma Later” which was followed by covers of “Canary In A Coalmine” by The Police and Pearl Jam’s “Release.”

Umphrey’s pulled from it’s not us for “Whistle Kids” and then ended the second set with the conclusion of “Nothing Too Fancy.” The band said farewell with a “Half Delayed” > “Glory” encore. Next up for UM are performances at the Lockn’ Festival in Arrington, Virginia on Thursday and Friday nights.

Watch a clip featuring Freekbass’ sit-in with UM:

Setlist (via All Things Umphreys)

Set One: The Triple Wide > Anchor Drops, Red Tape, Kabump[1] > Intentions Clear, Go to Hell, Controversy[2]

Set Two: Nothing Too Fancy > Spires, Seasons, Comma Later > Canary in a Coalmine > Release, Whistle Kids > Nothing Too Fancy

Encore: Half Delayed[3] > Glory

• [1] with The Next Movement (The Roots) jam; also, “Jimmy Stewart” with lyrics
• [2] with Freekbass replacing Ryan on bass
• [3] with Over the Hills and Far Away (Led Zeppelin) jam