Customer Rating:  
Summary: Very good live album from a brilliant band
Comment: As has been noted elsewhere, to truly experience Umphrey's McGee at their best you need to see them live. They have two particularly good studio albums ("Anchor Drops" and "Local Band Does OK"), but their improvisational flights in concert are what make this band truly exceptional. The Murat album is a two-disc set containing selected moments from a two night residency in from of what amounts to a home town audience. The sound quality is sterling, but one could argue that the choice of material does not quite show the band at their absolute best. Some day we'll get to hear impeccably-recorded live versions of songs like "Divisions". "All in Time", "Hurt Bird Bath", and others, but for now this is one very fine album that is still highly recommended. One should also note that the band also generously issues two free 80 minute podcasts every month for FREE. By all means check them out (see the band's website or iTunes for details on this). In the meantime, support this wonderful band by attending one of their live shows or (next best thing) ordering up this live disc!
Customer Rating:
Summary: Excellent live UM
Comment: Live at Murat is excellent. UM all is about the live experience & these discs capture it well. If you're a fan you either already have it, or won't get it b/c you have all the downloads. I have all the downloads & I still bought this. I am happy w/ the purchase.
If you're not yet a fan, UM is difficult to describe...rock, jazz, blues, fusion, prog rock, modern rock, post-modern rock, jam band...to scratch the surface. Do not expect much like Phish or Widespread Panic. UM is less singer-songwriter oriented, less arena rock-y, less classic rock-y than them. I think UM has more depth & breadth. I also think there is no UM w/out Phish & WS. Murat is an accurate snapshot of UM's style, virtuosity, & variety. If you like some/all of Murat, you'll find more in their catalog that appeals to you. If you don't like any of it, move along. This set is a good start for newbies.
I gave it 4/5 stars, b/c I have all their downloads. After having 50+ hours of their music, & hearing these 2 discs...some small part of me can't help but say, "Yeah, that's good but..."
Customer Rating:
Summary: Great selection of songs
Comment: Another great release by UM. Their live shows are why they are, who they are...and this captures alot of what you can expect to experience when you go see them live. Anchor Drops and Local Band Does OK are 2 other amazing CDs. Hell...you really need to get both their live DVDs if you wanna have some fun! But see this band and often, and you'll be glad.
Gianni
Customer Rating:
Summary: Umphrey's Mcgee is better than Phish!!
Comment: I said it. Most U.M. fans don't like to admit it, but Phish and U.M. are very similar bands musically. Below is how the 2 bands measure up, instrument to instrument.
Guitar-Umphrey's wins due to the dual guitar attack
Bass- Phish wins because Gordon is unstoppable
Keyboards-Phish wins just barely
Drums-Umphrey's drummer is absolutely amazing!
Bottom line:U.M. wins by a very slim margin
Customer Rating:
Summary: good first outing for live release
Comment: You have to see umphrey's mcgee live to really feel their music. This release features a lot of their best songs live. Good purchase for any umphrey's fan.
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