Weekend: DMB, the pause that refreshes

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DMB, the pause that refreshes

By RICK GERSHMAN
Published August 3, 2006

A year ago, I walked into the Ford Amphitheatre an official Dave Matthews Band nonbeliever.

I walked out with an appreciation of the vibe that draws people back to a DMB show, despite trudging through a steady drizzle and a minefield of parking lot mud pits.

In a world that seems disconnected, DMB provides the communal, familial jam-band experience for people who otherwise can't wait to get back to cell phones and instant messaging.

Dave and the boys were promoting Stand Up the last time around; they haven't released any new material since, but that doesn't matter. Word is DMB is trying out some unreleased material and dipping deep into the catalog for some surprises. Whatever they come up with, expect a reverent response.

Dave Matthews Band plays at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Ford Amphitheatre, Interstate 4 at U.S. 301 N, Tampa. $40-$59.50. (813) 740-2446.

Music

DMB, the pause that refreshes