The heat wave during these NC shows was no joke. Fortunately for everyone in attendance the band answered in kind.

Their night in Raleigh began with a concise but very hot Hungersite, quickly transitioning to a cleanly performed Inside Out. Butterflies' second appearance was tight and had an enjoyably dissonant climax. The Madhuvan jam was the highlight of the evening, lasting nearly 30 minutes and boasting several unique improv sections (namely a very heavy riff section and an absolutely stunning second peak from Rick a bit later). Additional texture and contributions from Peter and the percussion can't be understated either. This is a truly magnificent rendition of Madhuvan and probably the best I've heard.

Later on, Bob Don was hot as usual. The Arrow jam found a moody groove by the end and they rode it out with no forced peak, which I always appreciate. This Drive is another highlight, with its rhythmic jam and unique denouement.

This is an absolutely killer show, and one I was lucky to attend.