Widespread Panic Returns to the Stage After Three Decades

Since John Bell, bassist Dave Schools and guitarist Michael Houser first formed Widespread Panic in Athens, Georgia three decades ago, they have produced over 12 albums, earned themselves an enthusiastic following known as Spreadheads, and sold out Colorado’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre over 50 times – with no loss in spirit as evidenced during a sold-out four-day residency at Milwaukee’s Riverside Theater this week.

Widespread Panic performances are rare, and even rarer when their songs go on for what feels like hours – something characteristic of Widespread Panic shows. Unlike their late ’80s/early ’90s jam-scene peers like Blues Traveler and Spin Doctors, Widespread Panic never experienced pop culture’s heartbreaking rejection by MTV; instead they dressed like regular dudes, looked out for one another, and made arenas and festivals full of fans dance like it was under a permanently-full moon.

Over the course of five nights, the band amazed and delighted their audiences with an eclectic set list that featured new arrangements such as “Tackle Box Hero” and “Little by Little”, both recorded at last month’s Trondossa Festival in North Charleston, as well as fan favorites like “JoJo’s Delight”, Miracle Worker”, and even their signature cover of J.J. Cale’s “Travelin’ Light”.

This performance was especially memorable, given the song is one of their most beloved in their entire catalog. Not only were Bell and Schools’ vocals beautiful; their cover also boasted an orchestra-sound arrangement which brought out more of its emotional core than was possible through original recordings alone.

Between songs, drummer Todd Nance and percussionist Domingo Ortiz kept the audience excited with high-energy fills to keep them going strong. Their emotional yet inspiring show shows just why the band has enjoyed such success over 30 years together.

Although still grieving the death of their friend and founding member, the band is looking forward to an exciting future. Widespread Panic has certainly come a long way with their latest release, Earth to America, as well as their tour that includes three-night runs at both State Farm Arena and Red Rocks Amphitheatre this year. They appear to be in good hands! Widespread Panic first made their debut appearance back in 1986 when they hit the streets of Athens, Georgia – and since then their journey has only broadened with each step forward. Spreadheads can join them on their next leg of this journey at Riverside show on April 27. Also check out our full photo gallery from Riverside show & tour schedule here & don’t forget to share this article with friends!