To many devoted fans of Widespread Panic, their first unplugged album to date, Über Cobra, is long overdue. This compilation of stripped down, acoustic-leaning songs taken from two concerts taped at the House of Blues in Myrtle Beach, SC on November 6 &7, 2003, shines on the band's propensity for song, versus their renowned jam strengths.
For listeners cozy with the Athens, Georgia six piece, there aren't too many surprises here, though the band is refreshingly tight, reveling in the low-key atmosphere and diverse song selection. The album may be labeled acoustic, but there is a gust of energy that makes even the stripped down, cover-packed sampling sound electric. The Talking Heads' "City of Dreams," Neil Young's "Walk On," Willis Alan Ramsey's "Geraldine And The Honeybee" and longtime friend Vic Chestnutt's "Expiration Day," all make an appearance. Each make for strong company alongside Panic favorites, "Wonderin'" and "Mercy," with the later showcasing some tasty flat picking by relative newcomer, George McConnell. New Panic favorite, "Papa Johnny Road," displays as much punch acoustically as when it's juiced up, while the Bloodkin original "Can't Get High" shows its pop charm subdued in this unplugged realm. Even the dark turned sunny "Imitation Leather Shoes" proves that almost any song is fair game to be turned upside down by the band.
Full of high notes, the one moment of pure brilliance is found in yet another cover, this time Blind Faith's classic "Can't Find My Way Home." Lead singer John Bell serves justice to Steve Winwood's wistful tenor vocals of the original, riding the song's patented psychedelic aura - complete with kaleidoscope guitars and growling organ fills. Behind Bell's soulful pipes, Über Cobra, provides a pleasant bite for both new and old Panic listeners.
