Classic Phish Show

Phish fans taking a glance at the setlist of this concert will be in shock, as it is nearly an unrivaled line up of Phish classics.

They can be deemed so because this show happened relatively early in their career. This show happened to be a landmark of sorts in and of itself, because at the time it was the largest show Phish had played.

It was certainly unique, as well. The first set ends with Trey suggesting that the audience go swimming or play miniature golf, and it becomes apparent that this show was the perfect venue for the band's largest show to that point. Phish has always been about having a good time, and what better for a fan than to unwind from a powerhouse first set with a game of miniature golf? This atmosphere really rubs off in the music.

Ah, the music. Phish is zany as usual, opening the second set with a cover of the Theme from the Andy Griffith Show, something entirely genuine among Phish concerts to this date. Trey is having a good time, yelling "I can't hear you!" to the crowd as they help the band in whistling the song. Another notable highlight is Trey's narration on the Gamehendge duo "Colonel Forbin's Ascent" and "Fly Famous Mockingbird." Apparently he is inspired to weave a quick Gamehendge yarn by the mountain standing next to the stage.

Most interesting about the music is not the setlist itself, yet more how they are played. This is not anything strange to a live band, but this show, being old nowadays, features different ways of playing many songs that have since become live staples. For example, Split Open and Melt, Harry Hood, You Enjoy Myself, Suzy Greenberg and Run Like an Antelope may for the most part have become more refined, though it has done nothing to diminish the value of these classic recordings.

One downfall, though very slight, is a minor discrepancy in the sound quality of this show when compared to other Live Phish volumes. Not to say that this show has poor sound quality in the least. The quality is high, yet not on par with other albums. A miniscule problem for Phish fans.

As Phish tours the world, continues to sell out arenas in minutes flat, and throws festivals that draw a crowd big enough to qualify as a large city, this show simply increases in value as it is a time capsule of the things that Phish has changed. It is also a tribute to those things they have not: the zaniness, musicianship, and intriguing sound. Phish is about having a good time, and this 3 Disc set truly is a good time you will not soon forget.