As an under-the-radar live phenomenon, it only makes sense that studio albums have become somewhat of an afterthought for Widespread Panic. Of course, the act would argue otherwise, but that's the case. If pop bands tour to support an album, Panic records albums in between tours. That's fine, but what makes it frustrating is that it's already proved to have significant songwriting chops, most notably with 1994's "Ain't Life Grand." Every album since has seemed to become more about the band's hefty, rich sound rather than its songs. "Free Somehow," which marks the debut of new-ish guitarist Jimmy Herring, is no less of a tease, boasting three or four memorable songs (none mightier than "Airplane") and the rest serviceable filler. Be smart: Download "Airplane," "Dark Day Program," "Up All Night" and "Angels on High," and spend the rest on gas to the next gig.—Wes Orshoski