Umphrey’s McGee Set Fresh Cut Tour Dates

Following a period marked by significant personnel changes, Umphrey’s McGee is gearing up for an ambitious touring schedule in early 2027. The band, known for its eclectic fusion of progressive rock and improvisational prowess, revealed the Fresh Cut Tour kicking off mid-January in Columbus, Ohio, with final dates slated for mid-March in Aspen, Colorado.

This upcoming tour represents a new chapter for the group, which has faced the departure of longtime drummer Kris Myers in 2025 and guitarist Jake Cinninger during the summer of 2026. These lineup adjustments have set the stage for a refreshed creative direction as the band embarks on a coast-to-coast itinerary covering a diverse array of venues across the United States.

The Fresh Cut Tour is scheduled to commence on January 15 at KEMBA Live! in Columbus, followed by stops in cities such as Aurora, Illinois; Bloomington, Illinois; Green Bay, Wisconsin; and Detroit, Michigan. The spring leg continues through the West with performances in California, Nevada, and Colorado, concluding with back-to-back nights at the Belly Up Tavern in Aspen on March 18 and 19.

In the months preceding the tour announcement, Umphrey’s McGee celebrated its annual UM Bowl event at Milwaukee’s Pabst Theater, showcasing their eclectic setlist approach and deep catalog. The two-night festival featured multiple themed sets, including fan-driven “Choose Your Own Adventure” segments and curated selections highlighting different eras of their career.

Notably, the band resurrected several rarely performed tracks during UM Bowl XII, offering longtime followers a blend of nostalgia and surprise. These included the first live renditions of "Nachos for Two" in nearly 24 years and “All Things Ninja” since early 2025. They also revived "Baby Honey Sugar Darlin'" after a hiatus dating back to late 2022.

The second night leaned into acoustic and 1980s themes, further emphasizing the group's versatility. Set highlights encompassed fresh interpretations of classics like Pearl Jam’s “Black,” Nirvana’s “All Apologies,” and Tears for Fears’ “Head Over Heels.” The band also dusted off Seth Kaufman’s “Strolling a Suspension Bridge,” a cover rarely performed since shortly after their inception.

These performances underscored Umphrey’s McGee’s commitment to evolving their live shows and engaging audiences with both deep cuts and inventive covers. The band’s willingness to explore new sonic territories while honoring their roots sets a dynamic tone heading into 2027.

As Umphrey’s McGee prepares to navigate this new phase amid lineup transitions, the Fresh Cut Tour promises to be a pivotal moment for the group. The extensive itinerary across varied venues not only reflects the band’s enduring national appeal but also their intention to cultivate fresh creative energy and reconnect with fans.

While details about potential new recordings or collaborations remain scarce, the tour’s branding and timing suggest a forward-looking focus. Industry observers and fans alike will be watching closely to see how the band’s sound and live presence evolve in the wake of recent shifts.

Overall, Umphrey’s McGee’s announcement of the Fresh Cut Tour signals a reinvigorated chapter in their career, balancing reverence for their storied past with an eagerness to chart new paths. The coming months will offer insight into how the band’s reconfigured lineup interprets and expands their signature blend of progressive rock and improvisational jam band ethos.