Local Band Does OKlahoma cover

Local Band Does OKlahoma

Umphrey's McGee · 2003

66 min · 9 tracks · progressive rock

A vibrant fusion of progressive rock and improvisational jazz, showcasing intricate compositions and spirited musicianship.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    FDR > — Opening with an ambitious instrumental piece, FDR > sets the stage for the album's energetic exploration of musical complexity and improvisation.
  • →
    Divisions > — This track features a captivating blend of intricate melodies and rhythmic shifts, demonstrating the band's ability to seamlessly transition between various musical ideas.
  • →
    Glory — In a departure from longer jams, Glory showcases the band's knack for concise songwriting while maintaining their signature progressive sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends intricate compositions with improvisational flair, establishing a strong identity within its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album features multiple tracks that are variations on the same theme, particularly with 'Der Bluten Kat' appearing three times.
  • Several tracks transition seamlessly into one another, creating a continuous flow rather than distinct separations.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic exploration of musical themes
  • wave-like pacing with peaks
  • immersive live improvisational feel
  • engaging lengthy instrumental passages

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer concise standalone tracks
  • seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2003, Local Band Does OKlahoma was Umphrey's McGee's second studio album, following their debut, Greatest Hits Volume III. At this point, the band was gaining traction within the jam band scene, building a dedicated fanbase through relentless touring and dynamic live performances.
Stylistic neighbors
Widespread Panic· Phish· Tauk

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Divisions >

    The bridge introduces a shift in perspective as it reflects on personal struggles with a sense of urgency and introspection.

    This moment marks a significant tonal change, allowing for emotional depth that contrasts with the preceding instrumental sections.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 FDR > 10:04
  • 2 Der Bluten Kat > 9:55
  • 3 Pennis > 4:56
  • 4 10th Grade > 3:15
  • 5 Der Bluten Kat > 5:27
  • 6 Divisions > 13:13
  • 7 Glory > 2:45
  • 8 Divisions > 7:14
  • 9 Der Bluten Kat 9:27

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata