Umphrey’s McGee have always embraced technology. From their S2 sets, to their UM Bowl events, and their Headphones and Snowcones program, the band is constantly looking for new ways to engage with their technology-forward fans. With that in mind, Umphrey’s McGee have just released incredible 360° Virtual Reality footage of “Puppet String” from the band’s 4/20/16 show at the House of Blues in Houston, TX.
The band’s manager, Kevin Browning, confirmed that the band had recorded in VR after they played the show, but this is the first time we’ve been able to see any of the results of that experiment. It seems that the test was a success, as the footage of “Puppet String” that they’ve delivered is absolutely gorgeous. There are several camera angles, ranging from the front of the stage, to the front of house (where you can see lighting designer Jefferson Waful working), and another angle at the front of the venue’s balcony.
The band worked with Reel FX to create the unique visual experience, and the hard work by them and the band have truly played off. The song clocks in at twelve minutes and thirty seconds long, showcasing Umphrey’s in fine form as they tear through the high-octane number.
Check out the awesome footage below. Let’s hope there’s a whole bunch more VR footage coming from Reel FX and Umphrey’s McGee.