In April 2010, when Umphrey's McGee performed at Bluesfest in Byron Bay, Australia, they were actively promoting their album "Mantis," which was released in 2009. This album marked a pivotal moment in their career, showcasing a more progressive rock sound and highlighting their intricate compositions and improvisational skills. The performance at Bluesfest, a significant event celebrating roots and blues music, fell during a period of growing international recognition for the band. Umphrey's McGee is known for their energetic live shows, blending various genres, and this appearance was part of their increasing global outreach. Notably, this festival performance contributed to their reputation for exceptional live improvisation and audience engagement, aligning with the band's tradition of experimenting and pushing creative boundaries in their music.