“Space Wrangler”
“Tallboy”
“Can’t Get High”
These are the first three songs that Widespread Panic rolled out in Eugene. The first three songs is also the allotted amount of time a concert photographer has to sufficiently capture the essence of a show and the band that leads it. I am personally used to this limitation and have accepted it.
However, during Panic’s set, these three songs flew by. It seemed to me like these fifteen minutes lasted more like five. I got down to the pit, the crowd had already been standing by the stage for hours, the first three longs were played, and then I had to leave my sweet, sweet spot.
There was no way for me to stay any longer, and as I left my spot I took solace in the faces of the fans around me. The energy in the air was electric! The crowd (five thousand strong) was singing along to each and every song, with huge smiles on their faces. If only I too could have joined them in the front row… argh!
Personally, I was ecstatic to have had the chance to witness those songs so close. I am an old school Panic fan, who knows the words to practically all of what some would call their classic tunes. As I was shooting, I was singing. At the same time, I was captivated by the cool, collected presence of the boys on stage. It was obvious that all of the concerts under their belts had created a well-oiled machine. Smooth and organized, “tight” as they say, and on point. It was practically like listening to their albums, only with more umph and sonic exploration.
It certainly helped the mood and feel of the show to be at Cuthbert Amphitheater; what a gorgeous venue. With the grass, the trees and that river running behind the stage, it's just beautiful. It also boasts a crisp sound system and awesome stage lighting, something that any music fan would enjoy. Of course, the bulk of the lights were turned on only after I left the pit...ha.
Basically, Widespread Panic is a band not to be missed. The experience of being in an outdoor amphitheater, listening to live classic rock-styled music while enjoying a beverage on a warm sunny day, is not only an activity to do if you’re a hipster, it’s an event for the family! I saw kids (under five) dancing and hula-hooping and running around barefoot. So bring 'em if you got 'em. All in all, a fantastic experience, for the ears, for the eyes and for the soul.
