See James Casey’s Stellar Sit-In With Umphrey’s McGee At The Fillmore Philadelphia In 2019

Umphrey’s McGee shared video of the late James Casey sitting in with them at The Fillmore Philadelphia on November 2, 2019. The band welcomed the saxophonist for a 13-minute rendition of the instrumental “It Doesn’t Matter.”

James Casey sadly died on August 28 at the far too early age of 40. James was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2021. He persevered through the illness, continuing to perform and release solo material. James donated proceeds from his debut EP, A Little Something For Everyone, to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and Eastern Virginia Medical School’s HOPES Clinic to fund colon cancer screenings for the uninsured. Colorectal Cancer Alliance created a memorial fundraiser in his name.

Along with the “It Doesn’t Matter,” Umphrey’s McGee shared a statement:

We are extremely saddened to [hear] about the passing of our dear friend, James Casey. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, bandmates, and anyone who has been moved, inspired, or danced to his music. 💔🎷

We share this video of his 2019 sit-in to celebrate his life and the joy brought to any stage he took.

James emerged with Umphrey’s to begin their second set in Philly on November 2, 2019 with “It Doesn’t Matter.” Casey brought a simmering solo to a jazzy boil before swapping riffs with UM guitarist Jake Cinninger. James also led the band to the song’s rousing peak.

Watch James Casey sit in with Umphrey’s McGee on “It Doesn’t Matter” below:

Setlist (via All Things Umphreys)

Set 1: Wizard Burial Ground[1], The Linear > Walletsworth, Preamble > Mantis > Miss Tinkle’s Overture, Half Delayed > Hurt Bird Bath, Bombtrack[2]

Set 2: It Doesn’t Matter[3], Plunger > Yoga Pants-> August[4] > Plunger > Partyin’ Peeps, In The Kitchen[5] > Mantis

Encore: Pay the Snucka

Footnotes:

• [1] completing the 2019-11-01 version
• [2] with Marlon Lewis on drums and Kris on voals
• [3] with James Casey on saxophone
• [4] with Hysteria (Def Leppard) tease
• [5] with Little Wing (Jimi Hendrix) tease in intro

Show Notes:

• last Bombtrack 2016-12-30 (268 shows)
• Opening Band(s): Star Kitchen