Photo by Lucas Samuels While Umphrey’s McGee and Matisyahu typically draw distinctly different audiences, Thursday night’s Central Park’s SummerStage performance unified fans of both Chicago’s progressive rockers and New York’s Hasidic reggae singer. Both bands have roots in the jamband scene: Matisyahu was catapulted to the spotlight when Trey Anastasio invited him to sit in on a 2005 Bonnaroo set.

Umphrey’s McGee opened the show with “Professor Wormbog” followed by a Mantis tune, “Cemetery Walk.” The set showed-off more of the band’s vocal side – unlike some recent late-night shows – with older songs such as a fantastic “Nemo,” “Walletsworth” and “Got Your Milk (Right Here),” with both keyboardist Joel Cummins and guitarist Jake Cinninger lending their voices to frontman Brendan Bayliss.

Even though the band only had one set, Umphrey’s took its time easing into each jam with harnessed transitions that built anticipation in the crowd. Of the ten songs played, only three were from Mantis, including “Turn & Run” and the dancy “Cemetery Walk II.” The band closed the set with a rocking cover of the Beatles’ “I Want You (She’s So Heavy).”

The 30-year-old Matisyahu came onstage, bouncing with energy and enthusiasm, ready to play for New York City – the place where he formed his career. During his set, Matisyahu brought out several guest emcees from New York. Between bringing out his friends for a guest spot, Matisyahu excited his fans by diving into the audience and crowd surfing.

Highlights of the performance included an extended beat-box session and “One Day,” the single off his upcoming album which has an uplifting message. Like Umphrey’s McGee, Matisyahu showcased his own energy and skill during his set – turning those unfamiliar with the reggae-rapper into new fans. His new album, Light, is due in August.