Album of the Day

Safety in Numbers, by Umphrey's McGee (2006): The other day, in discussing UM's new album, Mantis, I mentioned being in the minority in not being disappointed with this album. Looking over the reviews online this afternoon, maybe I had the wrong impression of the reaction to it. It's not as beloved as some of their other stuff, but it seems to be pretty well regarded. I remember reading criticisms that the material here was more "song oriented" than early albums, but I'm not sure I hear it. What I do hear is a collection of really awesome songs - "Words" and "Ocean Billy" in particular - that is well worth having.