In May 2002, during the live recording at Schuba's in Chicago, Umphrey's McGee was in an exciting phase of their career, having just released their album "Anchor Drops" in March of that year. This album, their third studio release, showcased their evolving sound and distinctive blend of rock, jazz, and progressive elements, which they would further refine in subsequent years. Notably, the setlist from the Schuba’s performance includes tracks from "Anchor Drops," like "Soul Food I" and "Hurt Bird Bath," indicating the band's growing repertoire. The performance at Schuba's is particularly significant as it reflects their strong connection to the Chicago music scene and their dedication to live improvisation, a hallmark of their style that would continue to define them as prominent figures in the jam band community. During this time, Umphrey's McGee was beginning to gain a reputation for their energetic live shows and intricate compositions, setting the stage for their future success.