Panic Stricken Celebrates Widespread Panic's Music

Austin-based band brings the spirit of Widespread Panic to stages across the USA.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 7:15pm

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Panic Stricken, an Austin-based band, has been captivating audiences across the country with their faithful renditions and improvisational jams celebrating the music of Widespread Panic. Founded in 2014, the group gained attention following a memorable fill-in performance at Empire Control Room and Garage in 2021. Panic Stricken's performances continue to spread the "gospel of Widespread Panic" to both longtime fans and the uninitiated.

Why it matters

Widespread Panic is considered one of the great American jam bands, with a devoted following that spans decades. Panic Stricken's mission to carry on the musical tradition and spirit of Widespread Panic resonates with fans who can never get enough of the band's iconic sound.

The details

Panic Stricken was founded in 2014 by a group of talented musicians and performers who share a genuine love for Widespread Panic's music, including the brilliant but tragically short-lived guitar work of Michael Houser. The band quickly gained attention following a memorable fill-in performance at the Empire Control Room and Garage in Austin in 2021. Since then, Panic Stricken's performances have continued to captivate audiences across the United States with their faithful renditions and improvisational jams celebrating the Widespread Panic catalog.

  • Panic Stricken was founded in 2014.
  • The band gained attention following a fill-in performance at the Empire Control Room and Garage in Austin in 2021.

The players

Panic Stricken

An Austin-based band that performs faithful renditions and improvisational jams celebrating the music of Widespread Panic.

Michael Houser

The late guitarist of Widespread Panic, known as the "lingering lead" and whose brilliant but tragically short-lived musical genius inspired Panic Stricken.

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The takeaway

Panic Stricken's dedication to preserving and sharing the musical legacy of Widespread Panic speaks to the enduring power of great American jam bands. Their performances continue to captivate both longtime fans and new listeners, ensuring that the spirit of Widespread Panic lives on.