Not that we necessarily need a reason, but Movember seemed like a good enough one to rock a new UMLive sale. As has become custom, we’re offering a slew of shows (a whopping 65 for those scoring at home) at half off, $4.95 for MP3s and $7.95 for FLAC/ALAC.

Given the sheer volume of discounted audio available, I wanted to take a moment to recap a few personal highlights from the pile. Additionally, we’ve put all of these shows in one tidy list over on allthings.umphreys for your viewing convenience.

Feeling frisky? We’ve just added a “Movember: All In” bundle if you’d rather just add all 65 shows to your collection at an even deeper discount.

Irving Plaza, NY, NY 11/18/05 & 11/19/05
This was a particularly memorable two night stand for us. Our first visit to New York after hooking up with Huey Lewis during the 2005 Jammy Awards, he joined the band on stage both nights to run through classics like Heart & Soul, The Weight, and Bad is Bad and more. In addition, Jeff Austin poked his head out on the 18th to sing the the rarely seen Sister Christian. It was as much a party as it was a concert, and a stellar one at that.

Slim’s, San Francisco, CA 11/01/08
Loads of time and energy go into every UM show but some require significantly more planning, rehearsal, and sweat equity. Halloween is one of those events and 2008 was no exception as the band mades its debut at the legendary Warfield in San Francisco. With the pressure gone but the energy still palpable from the previous night, Slim’s was one of those shows we just knew was going to be good. Relaxed and care free, the band was driving fast and taking chances. Flippy Floppy, Ringo and DBK were all monsters and Let Me Go Home, Whiskey always puts a smile on face. This is a worthy addition to your collection.

Higher Ground, Burlington, VT 11/13/09 & 11/14/09
Not sure which one of these shows would win in a cage match, but it would be close. Three night runs are always a blast and with Stasik’s birthday falling on the second night of three, the mood was set for a rager. Add Mike Gordon to that mix on In The Kitchen and patient improv throughout the night and you’ve got a winner. Not to be outdone, the third night featured the debut of Barracuda, and the impeccable horn section that is Jen Hartswick, Dave Grippo, and Bryan McNamara. Baby Honey Sugar Darlin’ anyone?

Aragon Ballroom, Chicago, IL 11/26/11
Three words. Chicago. Mass. Choir. I can still feel the chills on the back of my neck when I think about the Amazing Grace/Glory medley. Toss in a vocal stewart during 1348, Allie Kral on Hajimemashite and a Stones debut and you’ve got yourself one rather enjoyable night of music.

Other notables:
Val Air Ballroom, Des Moines, IA 11/09/05 – Reggae version of Blue Echo was a great twist and the rare Pork Chop Pie
Granada Theatre, Dallas, TX 11/10/06 – 4 song second set pretty much sums it up
Bijou Theater, Knoxville, TN 11/19/08 – Entire first set featured Jake & BB on acoustics
9:30 Club, Washington DC 11/20/09 – Debut of Night Nurse, and 9:30 Club shows always smoke