Features

Reel Time: Widespread Panic (Relix Revisited)

Fear not Panic fans. Although Widespread Panic wrapped up its over the weekend in Vegas, we’re here to help smooth the transition to the group’s next outing with this piece, which originally ran in the September-October 2007 issue of Relix.

When Widespread Panic released its first studio album in 1988, few would have wagered that almost 20 years later the Athens, GA rockers would have survived most of its peers and blossom into the jam scene’s summer amphitheater draw. Widespread Panic has overcome the odds, despite having weathered the loss of founding guitarist Michael Houser and an ugly split with his replacement, George McConnell. Perhaps Panic’s durability has something to do with its songwriting approach, which favors structure over silly lyrics, or maybe it’s because the group never tried to replicate its live sound in the studio (live feel, yes). Few could argue that the addition of guitar ace Jimmy Herring in September, 2006 has invigorated the group’s sound. Now, less than a year later, the group is ready to document its new lineup with the help of veteran producer Terry Manning, the man responsible for 2006’s Earth to America (longtime producer John Keane remains a confidant and continues to collaborate with the group onstage and on live releases). John Bell catches up with Relix while working in Manning’s studio in The Bahamas.

The ‘My Baby’ Syndrome

I would say we’re 80% through the procedure. Hopefully the anesthesia will last [laughs]. The album to probably going to be 12 songs, which started from 21 ideas that were either full songs or just parts. In terms of songwriting, we officially say they are each by all of us. We all bring in ideas, whether it’s half-baked, fully-baked or just a piece! It’s important that no matter how much of a song you bring in, you leave yourself open to take advantage of any other inspirations that might come through. John Keane used to say, “Avoid the ‘My Baby’ Syndrome.” It’s going to be a better song when you get other angles involved.

Halloween Candy

We spent about two weeks sharing ideas in a very relaxed format. At that stage of the game, we didn’t put any pressure on ourselves to get the track. All ideas are explored. It’s like dumping your Halloween candy on the floor and just goin’ WHOA! After sitting with the stuff and listening to it while on the road, we had conversations about the songs. Then we went back into the studio, applied those ideas and started going for tracks.

Team Terry

One of the greatest things [producer Terry Manning] brings to the table is his appreciation for a live feel. For instance, if I’m doing vocals I will probably sync through the whole song maybe three times. I take a freewheeling approach every time, like I do in a live situation. Then we’ll see if something really interesting happens and look at those parts, as opposed to coming up with a part and repeating over and over again. He keeps the big picture in focus, but his attention to the live feel never wanes.