In July 2008, during the live recording at Lifestyles Pavilion in Columbus, Ohio, Umphrey's McGee was in an exciting phase of their career. They had recently released their album "The Bottom Half," which came out in late 2007. This album featured a collection of tracks that were previously unavailable on studio albums, showcasing their evolving sound and strong improvisational skills. The concert featured Jake Cinninger, known for his impressive guitar work, which was highlighted in the Miami show on YouTube. Notably, the band was known for their energetic live performances, and this show was no exception, being a part of a continuous tour that included various festivals and opening acts like STS9. This period marked Umphrey’s McGee's increasing popularity in the jam band scene, which was characterized by their blend of rock, jazz, and progressive styles.