HeadCount rockers Umphrey's McGee have just created a hilarious parody of the Volkswagen Darth Vader Super Bowl commercial (check it out above) to promote the now sold out UMBowl II. It further positions Umphrey's as the ultimate interactive band.
The UMBowl is split into four musical quarters, each having their own theme including an all request set made up of songs chosen by fans before the show and the "Choose Your Own Adventure" set made up of tunes chosen by the fans during the concert via text (with results displayed on projected screen). They're also adding a new Special Teams quarter that will bring out some of the band's friends.
We are thrilled to introduce the Special Teams quarter, a brand new concept for the UMBowl. Constantly evolving line-ups will keep everyone guessing as Q3 unfolds with various teams taking the field. Everything is possible – solos, duos, trios, and quartets as the band adapts to the conditions inside the stadium. You won't know who might pop up behind the drum kit or on the keyboards. Any configuration of the band may take the stage, although not likely the one you're used to. Different games call for different game plans and nothing is off limits.
I was lucky enough to attend Mayan Holidaze this year and Umphrey's performed Eliga la Musica, an all-request set where five of the eight songs I selected we're played. Having control over the music your favorite bands plays is one step toward ruling the galaxy!