Umphrey's McGee to play Indianapolis

Umphrey's McGee perform Saturday at the Murat Egyptian Room in Indianapolis. The band formed in South Bend while attending the University of Notre Dame. The members say they still consider Indiana to be a home base for support and have played in Bloomington at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater and the IU Auditorium. The current tour is in promotion of the band's second DVD, "Wrapped Around Chicago: New Year's at the Riv." This is its second live release of a performance in Chicago. \nSince forming in 1997, Umphrey's McGee has garnered wide recognition through a rigorous touring schedule and playing such high-profile events as the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Tennessee, The High Sierra Music Festival in California and Jam in the 'Dam in the Netherlands. Touring 150 shows a year coupled with their ability to deliver a great live show has won over fans. \n"The shows are rockin', and their music has a happy and exciting vibe to it," said freshman Oriane Robison. Robison has seen Umphrey's McGee twice and will be at the Murat on Saturday.\nUmphrey's McGee is a rock 'n' roll band drawing a wide range of influences. Bassist Ryan Stasik listed Yes, King Crimson and Miles Davis as some of the band's inspirations. \n"We are keeping it diverse, every show, keeping it different, open and exciting," Stasik said. "This way we don't get bored and our audience doesn't get bored either. Each show is always something completely different."\nSome say the element of surprise Umphrey's McGee brings to the stage is what keeps fans coming back for more. \n"I like seeing live music and they put on a really good show. They keep the crowd energy high," said freshman Rob Conover. He said has been listening to Umphrey's McGee for two years and Saturday will be his fifth show. \nStasik spoke of an upcoming album. \n"We have a lot of material on the back burner right now," he said. \nThe band will be doing its first European tour in March and will be returning to Bonnaroo this summer.\nTickets for the concert in Indianapolis can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com. The opening act is Glen Kotche of Wilco.