Umphrey’s McGee, the now six-piece group who first established it roots in South Bend, Ind., embraces a style known as “progressive improvisation,” a term coined to capture their performance style. Unlike many fellow jam bands, Umphrey’s follows a sound more closely found among artists likes ZZ Top, Frank Zappa or Widespread Panic. Now based in Chicago, Ill., Umphrey’s enjoys a significant fan base, and moreover, they’re currently on tour “celebrating 15 years of facemelting,” according to their website.

As is the standard for most jam bands, Umphrey’s pays significant attention to detail within their widely recognized and respected guitar parts. However, the group takes the guitar work one step further, so expect a plethora of screaming guitar riffs come Friday, March 15 at the McDonald Theatre. But on top of their ever-popular guitar work, Umphrey’s rounds out their sound with great vocals and rhythm sections.

Fans familiar with similar acts like The String Cheese Incident, Moe. and Railroad Earth will enjoy the style that Umphrey’s employs both in their live act and in their studio recordings. Their music is fun and at times ferocious in terms of the talent at each instrument. What can definitely be agreed upon is their ability to create and perform impressive jams.

In the span of their 15-year run as a group, Umphrey’s has released 12 studio and live albums alongside six DVD releases. It’s their dedication to their fans and their music that makes Umphrey’s a special act not to be missed Friday night.

Umphrey’s McGee performs Friday, March 15 at the McDonald Theatre alongside Bright Light Social Hour. Tickets are available for $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Doors open at 7 p.m.