Photos and Review by Stephen Bloch

Last Saturday night at the Riverside Theater in Milwaukee (aka Milwookie), Widespread Panic delivered one of those sets that feels both nostalgic and alive with new energy, all at the same time. From the moment the stage lights dipped and “The Take Out” kicked off the first set, it was clear this wasn’t a standard gig.  This was a throwback show for sure, with a heavy dose of material from their first two albums, Widespread Panic and Space Wrangler. Milwaukee has been hosting WSP since the VERY beginning, and those that have been around for the long haul were rewarded mightily. 

What is remarkable about this band is how a city that would seemingly be outside of their geographic wheelhouse is a flyaway destination.  Every single ticket to all three nights were gone in an instant (about two dozen loyal fans camped out for three days to score their golden three night tickets).  Rumor has it that all 50 states were represented at this run as was the case at other October runs. Even people who don’t know Widespread Panic from Boundless Alarm could tell that something “different” was happening in downtown Milwaukee.