I've seen enough live shows to know that I prefer the fusion jazz freestyle sound of the hippie concert to anything else. I went to Bonnaroo '04, not knowing what to expect 5 years ago and was completely amazed. By the bands I knew I'd enjoy: The Dead, Bob Dylan, Dave Matthews; and even more so by this amazing fusion jazz sound from Medeski Martin and Wood and Galactic. I went back in '05, determined to listen through the entire show for Galactic and my mind was blown. Honestly, their album is lacking, but live, I can say there is not a better performing band that I've seen. Or that has even come close. The way in which they control the intensity of the music to a degree that manipulates the crowd is incredible. It makes you almost beg for the imminent climax of each perfectly timed song. Five Stars.
