AllMovie

Eclectic Southern rockers Widespread Panic have developed a reputation as one of the best and most popular groups on the "jam band" scene, and this documentary takes an in-depth look at the group on and off the stage. Widespread Panic: The Earth Will Swallow You was filmed as the band was touring behind the album Another Joyous Occasion, and offers a wealth of evidence of their strengths as a live act. The film also includes interviews with the members of the group, as well as friends and musical contemporaries, among them Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna guitarist Jorma Kaukonen, blues legend Taj Mahal, New Orleans funk-jazz ensemble the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, frequent Jerry Garcia collaborator Merl Saunders, noted songwriter Vic Chesnutt, and mad genius Col. Bruce Hampton. Selections include "Driving Song," "Chilly Water," "Action Man," and "The Earth Will Swallow You."