Umphrey's McGee formed in December 1997 at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana, by guitarist/vocalist Brendan Bayliss, bassist Ryan Stasik, keyboardist Joel Cummins, and drummer Mike Mirro, combining members of campus bands Tashi Station and Stomper Bob. The group relocated to Chicago after graduation, expanding to a sextet with guitarist Jake Cinninger in 2001 and drummer Kris Myers in 2003, alongside percussionist Andy Farag. Their debut album, Greatest Hits Vol. III, appeared in 1998, followed by Local Band Does OK in 2002. The band's style blends progressive rock influences from artists like Yes, Frank Zappa, and Rush with elements of metal, funk, jazz, and improvisation, distinguishing their approach from traditional jam bands. Notable releases include All In Time (2004) and Asking For A Friend (2023). They performed at the inaugural Bonnaroo Music Festival in 2002, selling more CDs than any other act. Umphrey's McGee is recognized for extended live shows featuring non-repeating setlists, intensive improvisation dubbed 'Jimmy Stewarts,' and over 2,500 performances. They pioneered a single-artist streaming service with UMLive.net in 2005, now on Nugs.net. Drummer Kris Myers departed in May 2025 after 22 years.