what is the fascination with jam bands? is it a 20 something phenomenon?

I don't get it, either. I had a few friends into Widespread Panic and such while in college during the late '90s, but the obsession over jambands on this board is ridiculous.

There aren't a lot of posters on this board. Most of the regulars are into it so its usually the topic at hand

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what is the fascination with jam bands?

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It's about 10 people total on this board that post about it... They just happen to post a lot..

I'm 38 and I went and saw Phish in OB last month. CSB. I know.

I was really into them through my 20s (followed mainly the Dead and Phish around), and I pretty much grew out of it in my 30s. I still like to listen to the Dead some, but I missed out on a lot of music and great shows in my 20s through my single-minded focus on the jam band scene.

I still have a lot of friends in their 40s who are mainly into jam bands and spend their vacations going to see Phish, Panic, and others.

It really is annoying and they are very pseudo intellectual about their crappy music. At least get into classical or jazz or something that's worth getting deep about. fricking stoner music (unless it's jazz) sucks so hard.

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There's like freaking 10 threads on the front page alone. Should they get their own board?

Seems to attract college age students. Anyone over 30 on here still into it?

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The same people post the same stuff over and over....

Outside of Gratefule Dead, Allman Bros, Widespread Panic(Mikey Panic, not that crap they play now), and Phish, jam bands are terrible.

Why people on here like jam bands:

1. Most enjoy a wide variety of music genres and appreciate the eclectic way that jam bands combine those elements into a unique sound.

2. Every show is different. It makes following the tour a lot more interesting. These bands have to the keep the setlists somewhat fresh or else fans will incessantly bitch on message boards. Well, they'll bitch regardless.

3. The improvisational nature of the songs (i.e. the jamming). People find this a lot more interesting than hearing short, well-polished live versions that mimic studio work. Losing yourself in a jam is one of life's great joy's IMO. Jamming also allows the musicians showcases their skills. Which leads to the next point..

4. The musicians for jam bands are usually very skilled compared to other genres. Music aficionados are more likely to appreciate this.

5. The music is upbeat and danceable, puts you in a good mood.

6. DRUGS