Live music: New bands in the scene today

I've come to truly enjoy jam bands of all sorts, and many genres in general. There are hundreds and hundreds of amazing bands out there, who play these festivals but do not reach the listenership of the mainstream masses. Mainstream music is so awful, and I really feel bad for anyone who listens to it on a regular basis, and buys the albums. They don't know what they're missing.

The best music is on the underground, and is almost ALL live. I have no respect for studio recordings anymore. The Dead only made records to conform and make more money for their staff, but they played thousands of shows. Phish is a great band that's been touring for years since the 90's. I've been following more bluegrass roots bands, like one particular I like, called Railroad Earth.

I've been listening to The Brew, a band out of Massachusetts that plays an indie/rock/reggae type music, that has a poppy feel to it. But it's pure musicianship. They're each unbelievable musicians. Another great live band I've come to like is Umphrey's McGee, The String Cheese Incident, Jackie Greene, the Disco Biscuits, and others. These bands are keeping the scene going and the people following.