Widespread Panic Preps to Rock the Orpheum

Widespread Panic been rocking since the ‘80s and have shown no signs of slowing down. They are ready to rock it out at the Orpheum Theatre on March 24 and 25.

Thankfully, John Bell and Michael Houser met while attending the University of Georgia. Together they started a band that has since gone on to not only captivate their audiences, but also make their shows something worth sharing. Today Houser has since passed away, but the music has continued to live on with Bell taking the reins and making sure Widespread Panic never stays away from the scene for long.

Since their first show at a charity event at school, the band has gone on to tour the world and make a name for themselves when it comes to their live shows. Like The Allman Brothers, Widespread has that rock and roll mentality but have infused it with Southern roots that include a variety pack of blues and progressive rock. With a sound like this, a melting pot of sound, it’s not surprise that they’ve managed to release 11 studio albums alone and numerous live records with their debut being 1988’s “Space Wrangler.” From there they hit the charts with so many other albums including 1999’s “‘Til the Medicine Takes” and their most recent from 2010, “Dirty Side Down.”

As for what fans can expect from their Orpheum show, well that’s up in the air as the band is synonymous with never playing the same set twice. That’s something that makes them stand far away from so many other bands. Most have one set list for an entire tour and rarely shake things up. With Widespread Panic, each show is like a snowflake. While it’s anyone’s guess what fans will hear – one thing’s for sure, it’s going to be a good one.

Another interesting thing that sets the band away from the pack is the fact they welcome fans to tape their performances. The upside of is the fans are welcomed to tape and trade with others. This isn’t anything new today with the idea of YouTube being as common as oxygen, but back in the early ‘90s, it was unheard of, but it has served to keep the band in good stead with its audiences.

Widespread Panic plays the Orpheum Theatre on March 24 and 25. Tickets can be purchased here.