The Jam Charts · phish.net's good stuff

The phish.net curators flag the versions that go somewhere - the ones worth pulling the tapes for. This is all of it, counted our way. Tap a song for its history, a date for the night.

5,197 charted versions310 songsgolden year 1994 · 446 entries

Chartings by year

When the good stuff happened, by the curators' count. Tap a bar (or a year below) to read that year's charts.

The 1997 charts

359 entries · 73 nights
1997-02-13Shepherd's Bush Empire · London · England
Jam

> in from "PYITE." An excellent, far-ranging and mildly dark jam emerges from the post-"PYITE" haze.

Harry Hood

The early part of the jam includes warm, delicate musing. As Fish increases the percussive dynamic, the power gradually builds. Rather than rushing to peak, the band takes it time getting there, but with the power continually building, adding to strength of this quality version.

1997-02-16Alter Wartesaal · Cologne · NRW
David Bowie

Very intense jam. While mostly "Type I," solid Fish percussion pushes it beyond here and there.

1997-02-17Paradiso · Amsterdam · North Holland
Down with Disease

Inspiring, upbeat jam develops some filthy, funky legs before -> to the astounding debut of "Carini," which -> "Taste" -> "DwD" (the closing section). Viewed as a single piece, it's 47 minutes of incredible, must-hear jamming.

Carini

Debut is a masterpiece of improvisation, the centerpiece of a "DwD"->"Carini"->"Taste"->"DwD" suite. A mix of upbeat jamming, raging psychedelic rock, rhythmic stop/starts, quiet space, and more. Absolutely must-hear.

Taste

Straightforward "Taste" version is part of a much larger "DwD" -> "Carini" -> "Taste" -> "DwD" song and jamming combination.

Down with Disease

Closing section of this epic "DwD" -> "Carini" -> "Taste" -> "DwD" combination.

1997-02-18Bataclan · Paris · Île-de-France
Also Sprach Zarathustra

Smooth start with a fiery peak in the first jam. Second jam is a "Sex Machine" funk face puncher. Clear dancing room.

Harry Hood

This is really an exceptionally strong "Hood" with great Page/Trey interplay, great melodies from Trey, super peak, etc. etc.

1997-02-21Tenax · Florence · Tuscany
Down with Disease

Nice melodic departure from the standard that grows increasingly funky as it progresses. Great Page B-3 action.

You Enjoy Myself

Finally played in Firenze, a feisty, typically strong "YEM" strengthens after the 10:00 mark to become outrageous. Similar to the Holiday Run's "Izabella," Trey outright attacks, and then goes off, as if goading the others to keep up. Play "cools" through a righteous "Bass and Drums" section.

Wilson

The heaviest of all the Heavy Metal style Wilsons comes bursting -> out of a gnarly unfinished "Antelope" jam with a transformed thrashing arrangement and properly gutural vocals from Trey.

1997-02-22Teatro Olimpico · Rome · Lazio
Chalk Dust Torture

Somewhat unusual jamming with great Mike and Trey teamwork.

1997-02-23Fillmore · Cortemaggiore · Emilia-Romagna
Fluffhead

A great version which bristles with energy. Despite some minor wobbles in The Chase and Who Do? We Do!, Page offers some great funky keyboard action in Clod, while Mike is noticeably strong. Rounding the final curve, Fish and Trey lead a rocking and powerful Arrival, underscoring a top notch perfor…

Suzy Greenberg

"Suzy" gets some funk!

Maze

Solid Page with some dissonant chords. In Trey's section, there are a couple of false peaks which add to the tension.

Mike's Song

The 1st jam of the first '97 "Mike's" is actually less funk-infused than many Fall '96 versions, and is straightforward but fairly intense. The serene and soothing 2nd jam portends the ambient sounds that would emerge in '98 and '99, and has a melodic feel akin to "Blue Bayou."

1997-02-25Incognito · Munich · Bavaria
Prince Caspian

> in from "DwD." Great, full band, rocked out jam section is followed by a "Coil"-like Page piano solo coda.

1997-02-26Longhorn · Stuttgart · Baden-Württemberg
Ha Ha Ha

The usual wacky stuff one would expect, but this version also has a nice 2-minute Trey and Mike-led jam which emerges on the back end of the song proper.

You Enjoy Myself

"Get On The Good Foot" teases. Nice segue into "Kung."

Scent of a Mule

Page > Trey guitar/vocal > whole band jazz jam with "Take the 'A' Train" tease from Mike -> "Magila" > klezmer > chanting and conclusion.

Jam

> in from "SOAMule." A whole band jazz jam with a "Take The 'A' Train" tease comes in the middle of an excellent, extended "Mule" and -> to "Magilla."

Magilla

-> in from an awesome jazz "Jam" in the midst of an extended and excellent "SOAMule." -> back to "Mule" to conclude.

Scent of a Mule

-> in from "Magilla" to conclude an excellent and jazz-infused "Mule."

1997-03-01Markthalle · Hamburg · Hamburg
Wolfman's Brother

Game changing version launches "Wolfman's" as a jamming vehicle. The improvisational jam works through several sections of serious funk, gains rocking legs around 12:00, before more funk and a masterful -> to "JJLC."

Jesus Just Left Chicago

Great -> in from "Wolfman's Brother." Strong modulation of intensity in this stellar version. Huge peak at the end of Page's section is followed by near silent soloing by Trey, which gradually builds to a roaring, bluesy crescendo.

Possum

Heavy metal jamming in the intro and more in the jam itself.

Mike's Song

Some funky sounds and good variation away from the standard underpin the 1st jam. The 2nd jam breaks into an easy going groove and features some crazed lyrical and musical references to the Doors and Pink Floyd, including quotes of "The End," Peace Frog," and "Careful With That Axe, Eugene."

Weekapaug Groove

Amusing lyrical improvisation from Trey, as he parodies the Doors' classic "The End", followed by "CYHMK" teases in the jam and a "CYHMK"-like ending. (This version is on "Slip Stitch and Pass.")

1997-03-02Pumpehuset · Copenhagen · Capital Region
You Enjoy Myself

SKELTON VJ. (No B&D.)

1997-03-18The Flynn Theatre · Burlington · VT
Harry Hood

This majestic and graceful "Hood" is very powerful and moving, with soulful, delicate teaming by Trey and Page. The peak rises to lofty heights without ever losing its elegant beauty. Live Phish Archival Release.

Cars Trucks Buses

Extended, jazzy jam with Dave Grippo on alto sax and James Harvey on trombone.

Suzy Greenberg

Version benefits from excellent contributions from musicians Grippo (alto sax) and Harvey (trombone), but Mike may steal the show, here. Fun, Funky, Phish.

1997-06-13The S.F.X. Centre · Dublin · County Dublin
Limb By Limb

Debut. Band sounds a little shaky trying to get this new song right, especially Fish with the complex rhythm.

Vultures

Played twice during "Bradstock" (6/6/97), "Vultures" properly debuts in Dublin, a month before the band's historic 1997 summer tour. While the song will be reworked over the coming years, its essential elements are place, namely super intra-band improvisation, working within the "context" of the so…

Chalk Dust Torture

Jam breaks into a nice funky-but-rockin' groove. Unfinished with -> to "Ghost."

Ghost

Cursory initial inspection of form and function...healthy purr from the motor...let's rev this thing up. [Debut.]

1997-06-14The S.F.X. Centre · Dublin · County Dublin
Free

The new or modern "Free" jam is hatched with funky, bass-led sound. Great Page on clavinet, organ, synthesizer and piano.

Twist

Debut. Straightforward jam structure, but includes a nice funky Page-led section beginning about 6:00.

Piper

Debut in Dublin. Many '97 - '99 versions follow this format, that involves (1) a long, harmonic, building intro, (2) a high energy lyrics and "Type I" jamming section, and (3) a short settling coda, but no exploratory jamming or improvisation.

David Bowie

Strong playing by Fish helps this fiery and tempestuous one get outside the box several times.

Cavern

A low-key but VERY funky "Cavern." Check it out!

1997-06-16Royal Albert Hall · London · England
Reba

> in from the rocking debut of "I Don't Care," the jam, here, offers a stark contrast. Trey works great, melodic soloing into a beautiful passage of quiet restraint, Page's fills matching the "Doc's" warm tone. Trey, via an impressive array of styles and ideas, slowly rebuilds intensity, and the ba…

1997-06-19Arena Wien · Vienna · Vienna
Stash

Straightforward until 11:30 when the sounds of funk start to creep in. Becomes a full-blown funk jam after 14:50. Unfinished with a -> to "Ghost."

Prince Caspian

> in from "JJLC." Long and beautiful intro (to 3:35). Jam section features great Trey/Page interplay, as well as more melody line variation from Trey than has become typical. Fish and Mike are rock solid here.

1997-06-20Divadlo Archa · Prague · Prague
Jam

> in from "Taste." A weird, funky jazz-like jam which -> to "Cities."

Horn

> in from "Cities," this is a standard, well-played version, except after the song proper ends the band spends the final minute in a calm, quiet space with prominent Mike that sets up perfectly for a -> to the debut of "Ain’t Love Funny".

Ain't Love Funny

Very good segue out of "Horn" leads to the Phish debut. After the song ends around 3:00, play continues for another 3 and a half minutes. Starting in a delicate, pretty space, the mood and tempo shifts at 4:15 and leads to Trey finding a theme a minute later that carries the band -> to "LxL."

Twist

A straightforward, but funkified jam breaks around 8:00 into a low key, funky jam that at times sounds similar to Santana's "Oye Como Va" before returning to "Twist." The "Oye Como Va" connection would solidify with time.

1997-06-21Hurricane Festival · Scheeßel · Lower Saxony
Twist

The jam breaks to funk early, returns to "Twist," then a very good funky-blues jam develops which gets energized and upbeat. A quieter, spacey section follows before a return to the funk-blues jam and > to "Cavern."

1997-06-22Loreley · St. Goarshausen · Rhineland-Palatinate
Taste

First of many very strong '97 "standard" versions. Lots of "NICU"/"Norwegian Wood" theming. Quality sbd recording on the "Spreadsheet."

1997-06-24La Laiterie · Strasbourg · Grand Est
Free

Nice funky jam that gets pretty rocking. Great Mike and Trey.

Wolfman's Brother

Bad-Ass funk with awesome Mike, and great Page on the B-3 and other keyboards. Starts to settle out of funk mode, then gets into some rocking, growly Trey-led jamming that eventually mellows and > to "Reba."

1997-06-25L’Aeronef · Lille · Hauts-de-France
AC/DC Bag

Bust out the funk!

Down with Disease

The jam cuts into funk mode pretty quickly, gets more rocking, then back to more funk. After a brief settle, there is a -> to "Piper."

Down with Disease

The ending section of this "DwD" -> "Piper" -> "DwD" combination includes "CYHMK" teases and -> to "Meatstick."

Meatstick

Short debut version is essentially the "Meatstick" lyrics being sung over the jam out of "DwD". -> to "McGrupp".

McGrupp and the Watchful Hosemasters

-> in from "Meatstick." A very unusual version. It starts in a swirly, funky mode, then shifts to a reggae style when the lyrics commence, and includes "Makisupa" teases. Trey narrates the lyrics in a style similar to the earliest versions (pre August '87). Page's solo is unu…

1997-07-01Paradiso · Amsterdam · North Holland
Ghost

Melodious "Back of the Worm" madness. [Funk flows to "Back of the Worm" jamming, then opens to serene and melodic grooving, which eventually grows funky and percussive again. Helluva show opener!]

Ya Mar

Worm banter. Great short jam and drum solo. Page rocks!

Limb By Limb

Two weeks into its life, the band has got this song nearly nailed. This version is very well played and includes a delicate, almost silent coda that leads to a -> to "Ain't Love Funny."

Reba

After an ugly composed section, the jam moves from a familiar, quiet sentiment to become both melodic and spacey, with great effects from Page offset by playing upon his acoustic. Trey solos thoughtfully and deliberately, the jam both driven and breezy, a great groove driven upwards towards a "Slav…

Jam

Fish kicks off Set II of a storied show playing the piano, solo, and is joined by the others while he switches to his drum set.

Timber (Jerry the Mule)

An extremely well-played version kicks off the second set of very popular and highly rated show.

Bathtub Gin

Really great version that begins with an old-school (pre-August '93) style "Gin" jam, then morphs into a dark and growly power jam with a "Little Drummer Boy" tease. Gets mellow and funky at the end and -> to a HUGE "Cities."

Cities

A super slow tempo, groovy straightforward "Cities" -> to an incredible "Jam."

Jam

-> in from "Cities." Super slow and groovy. Jam breaks down into an extended, meandering groove that patiently and sedately coasts along. Includes "Worm" banter, "When The Saints Go Marching In" and "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" teases, and gradually builds some energy and pulse towards the end.

1997-07-02Paradiso · Amsterdam · North Holland
Maze

-> in from "Simple." Page deploys multiple keyboard weapons, and then it just gets blistering hot.

Weekapaug Groove

This set-closing version takes a funky and gooey ride through the sewers of Amsterdam.

Stash

Unusual intro with delay effects. The jam breaks from standard at about 15:07 into a rocking groove which then morphs into a melodic, upbeat groove capped with a bass solo. Dissolves into dissonant space and -> to "Llama."

Llama

-> in from "Stash." Incredibly funky Page section and an intense Trey section. No final refrain as the music cycles down, then rebuilds into a dark, ominous "Wormtown" Jam played to the melody of Steve Miller's "Swingtown," but changing lyrics to "Wormtown." Lots of Trey and Fish "Worm" banter. ->…

Wormtown

-> in from "Llama." A dark, ominous jam develops that is played to the melody of Steve Miller's "Swingtown," but changing lyrics to "Wormtown." Lots of Trey and Fish "Worm" banter. -> to "Velvet Sea."

Wading in the Velvet Sea

Slow, syrupy, yet anything but saccharine, a dizzy, patient performance perfectly encapsulates an important side of the band's Euro '97 sound. Triumphant, yet melancholy, fans of the song, or Trey, generally, could do worse than to start, and end, here. A masterpiece.

Free

More of the modern "Free" jam, with a great bass-led breakdown and some good delay/resume action.

1997-07-03Serenadenhof · Nüremberg · Bavaria
Taste

Trey shreds this one, and adds a lot of "wah" effects in the middle section. Great band-wide interplay at the peak.

Ghost

Flowing, passionate, near symphonic excursion with a "Ghost" vocal reprise. [Heavy funk turns quiet and introspective, builds energy, then follows a mildly dark, funky path before brightening into percussive, rocking jamming with "Ghost" vocals.]

1997-07-05Piazza Risorgimento · Como · Lombardy
Twist

The jam starts to break from the standard around 5:45 and by 7:25 has morphed into a good funky groove from which a jam on Deee Lite's "Groove Is In The Heart" emerges. Settles and > to "Piper."

Good Times Bad Times

Groovy version with a "Walk This Way" flavor and extended Trey shredding on the backend.

The Squirming Coil

Page shines throughout this single-set, free, outdoor gig, so it arrives as a bit of a surprise that it's Trey who steals the show during the course of this patient and serene encore. To be sure, Page's play is confident and assured, but Trey's late (7:00) play is as unusual as it is welcome, his t…

1997-07-06Spiaggia di Rivoltella · Desenzano · Lombardy
Stash

Another version where the jam has a funk section (9:40 - about 14:30) which is quite good and different.

Scent of a Mule

Page > vocal/guitar by Trey, with Mike and Fish joining in, and then Page in a funky jam > klezmer > conclusion.

Free

Slow tempo, very funky jam with Trey taking the lead.

You Enjoy Myself

Long jam. No B&D, no VJ, segues into "Waste."

1997-07-09Le Transbordeur · Lyon/Villeurbanne · Auvergne-Rhône
Prince Caspian

Good combination of a nice intro, varied and interesting soloing by Trey, then a chill-out Page section before the closing.

Taste

Powerful Page solo. Like 7/3/97, very good Trey/Page interplay, similar to a good "LxL". And strong Trey. One of the first versions where the "NICU" riff appears immediately preceding the closing sequence.

You Enjoy Myself

In one of the longest YEMs since 1995, Phish jam with jazz/fusion quartet Bela Fleck and the Flecktones. The jam consists primarily of individual solos from each guest, eventually culminating into an ensemble -> to a jam on "Trane to Conamarra." Phish may not have found Pierre, but they found the…

Trane To Conamarra

A magnificent "YEM" jam with Bela Fleck and the Flecktones continues -> with elements of their tune and funkily works itself -> to "Ghost".

Ghost

Two bands join in deftly dealing with each other's newest material when Trey calls an audible in the midst of the Flecktones informed segue jam, counting off the guest-studded ensemble into a highly improvisational take on Ghost. Featuring, in the first place, Victor Wooten's virtuosic bass work a…

Poor Heart

Featuring the Flecktones including solos from Bela and Jeff, a bunch of false endings and teases, a big "Freebird" style ending, and Pierre chanting.

1997-07-10Espace Julien · Marseilles · PACA
Bathtub Gin

Another '97 that revisits the cast-aside, old "Gin" jam with a little added funk sound, then breaks into full-on disco funk mode. Briefly returns to "Gin" proper, grows spacey and > to a seriously jammed-out "Llama."

Llama

-> in from "Bathtub Gin." Following the final refrain, the band breaks into a excellent heavily funk-infused jam that grows darkish towards the end. -> to "Velvet Sea."

Jam

A funky and blues-infused jam is played on its own in Set I. At 4:24, the jam develops a theme similar to "The Lizards."

Also Sprach Zarathustra

Outstanding banter gives way to all time flame throwing funk upbeat ass kicking version. Zero messing around. "Super Bad" jam and "Start Spangled Banner" finish.

Julius

Jam starts out conventionally, but then the band brings the volume way, way down. After playing quietly for several minutes, the intensity builds. Unusual ending with -> to "Magilla."

Magilla

Just an incredibly cool -> from "Julius." Page sets the tone, with Trey laying way back, and Fish and Mike offbeat and on point. A building sort of jam dissolves into a great bass solo. And this into a super percussive bit of music with an extended, fun conclusion. A fan favorite. And for good reas…

Ya Mar

Short but sweet - Fish/Page duet (drums and Hammond B-3), then Trey/Mike duet, then Fish/Page duet (high hat and clavinet), then Fish/Trey duet (bell and low guitar), then Fish/Page duet (ka cymbal and Rhodes), then foot stomping (all). "Magilla" and "St. Thomas" teases, vampire children references.

Take Me to the River

-> in from "Ghost." The Phish take on this Rev. Al Green song, popularized by Talking Heads, begins in familiar manner, then slows to classic '97 funk. Then the jam rebuilds energy, becoming rocking, and includes reprise vocals from Fish and Trey.

1997-07-11Doctor Music Festival · Escalarre · Catalonia
Wolfman's Brother

Extended funk section which continues until 12:00 when the jam loosens into rocking mode and > to "Johnny B. Goode."

1997-07-21GTE Virginia Beach Amphitheater · Virginia Beach · VA
Bathtub Gin

Brilliant, exploratory "Gin" that includes funk, "Drowned" jamming (9:25 - 11:55), syncopated, blues-infused rocking, and stops. At 18:30 with the others still playing, Trey addresses the audience, talking about new songs.

Magilla

Summer 97's brilliant Creature Double Feature. -> from "Wolfman's Brother," the intro features Trey's signature sound, before a more traditional "Magilla" takes shape. True to that summer's form, the version veers into more exploratory ground, with Trey trading solos with Page and lending a funky e…

Wading in the Velvet Sea

The solo section begins all the way down, allowing Trey to expertly switch between sparkling chord arpeggiations and soaring single note lines with supreme patience, before his cathartic, Leslie-affected chording brings it home.

Theme from the Bottom

At 7:10, the jam veers into a nice funky groove. Then at 8:30 LeRoi Moore pipes in on the saxophone. He plays a tease from the "Theme To Woody Woodpecker" and then he and the band embark on a funky, jazzy exploration. Page switches keyboards several times and the jam grows weird, dissonan…

Jam

-> in from "Theme." The "Jam" leaves "Theme" and veers into a nice funky groove. Then at 8:30 LeRoi Moore pipes in on the saxophone. He plays a tease from the "Theme To Woody Woodpecker" and then he and the band embark on a funky, jazzy exploration. Page switches keyboards several times and the jam…

Slave to the Traffic Light

Trey's playing includes some subtle and effective melodic variation. Meanwhile Page and Fish add really nice color and texture, transforming this lazy summertime version into one with a powerful sense of grandeur, reaching lofty heights in its strong conclusion.

1997-07-22Walnut Creek Amphitheater · Raleigh · NC
Taste

Played during a thunder and lightning storm of Biblical proportion that prematurely ended Set I, you can hear the thunder crackling in the background. Clearly the storm electrified the band, and if you are a Page fan, this is a must-hear, incredibly intense version.

Down with Disease

Multi-part, heavy duty funk jam -> "Mike's Song."

Mike's Song

This single jam version breaks into a thick soupy funk groove right off the bat, with lots of good variation. At 8:20, there's some shifting of instrumental sounds, but the basic grooves stays intact. Then at 10:45 the jam breaks into a new, completely different and exploratory section with a threa…

1997-07-23Lakewood Amphitheatre · Atlanta · GA
Julius

Arguably the best "Type I" version ever. The jam proceeds through the customary progressions, then, just when your ear is expecting the final refrain, the band veers off into a fantastic, swinging, stylistically well-played extension.

Limb By Limb

An excellent version which showcases the dynamic interplay between Trey and Page, while Fish and Mike keep the intricate rhythmic pattern steady throughout. Also has a fantastic peak and gradual settle.

Split Open and Melt

Straightforward, but so loaded with the funk that it could only belong to 1997.

Possum

The band remains in a lockstep groove as Trey tears through this Phish staple. The jam threatens to break away but then returns for a rousing conclusion and shoots off fireworks to close the first set of a highly regarded show. H/T @Tweezingspaceranger

Ghost

Raging porno-funk that slides into a very mellow midi horn laden outro. [A multi-section masterpiece of funky '97 styles highlight this strong jam. Page skillfully deploys multiple keyboards, and the jam energy ebbs and flows repeatedly.]

You Enjoy Myself

Unusually weird jam. Jeopardy theme tease. -> to "Rocky Mountain Way." (No B&D, no VJ.)

Rocky Mountain Way

-> from one of the summer's marked musical surprises, Lakewood's supercharged and super weird "You Enjoy Myself." "YEM" culminates not in the characteristic vocal jam, but rather, a dense passage of shoegazing noise. As if the band is channeling their inner-Europe, this outro…

1997-07-25Starplex Amphitheatre · Dallas · TX
Wolfman's Brother

Lots of good funk, then the jam starts to uncork, but cycles back to more funk. Around 11:00, the jam breaks out into some great "C&P"-like jamming before settling and > to "Maze."

Maze

> in from "Wolfman's Brother." Frenzied chaos run amuck.

Bathtub Gin

A classic "Type I" jam drops into funk mode for a good 6 minutes before returning to the "Gin" theme. -> to "Makisupa."

Makisupa Policeman

A strong jam emerges beginning at 6:20. It's bluesy at first and then moves to a gentle, down-tempo rock jam, typical of '97 Phish, beginning around 7:27. Nice -> "AC/DC Bag."

AC/DC Bag

-> in from "Makisupa." Similar to 8/13/96. Intense, stretched-out version where the band just keeps it going and going.

Chalk Dust Torture

Bob Gullotti on second drum set. The band really stretches this version out, then at about 9:45, the jam mellows into a rhythmic and bluesy groove that eventually hints back at "CDT" before -> to "Taste."

Taste

Joined by the late, great Bob Gullotti, this unique rendering (unsurprisingly) finds a percussive, pulsating groove, but just as the jam is about to peak with the traditional late-'90s "Taste" outro, it instead segues seamlessly into -> "Ya Mar."

Ya Mar

Bob Gullotti on second drum set. -> in from "Taste." Big two-way drum solo. -> to "Ghost."

1997-07-26South Park Meadows · Austin · TX
Limb By Limb

In addition to hosting Bob Gullotti on a second drum set, the boys bust out the Funk towards the end of this version - an extremely rare style for a "Limb" jam.

You Enjoy Myself

"Willie the Pimp" tease just before the segue into "Izabella." (No B&D, no VJ.)

Timber (Jerry the Mule)

Bob Gullotti on a second drum set. Set II opener takes the typical "Timber" jam, extends it and cools it down a bit to a more mellow groove while maintaining a good rhythmic pulse. Never loses the dark "Timber" vibe.

Free

After an amazing start to the II, it becomes clear that Trey has little interest in the "Hood" he dialed up following a great "Bowie." Check out the show for more details, but in lieu of "thanking" Mr. Minor, Trey aborts the song and ->'s into "Free". The band unleashes, resulting in one of the fin…

1997-07-29Desert Sky Pavilion · Phoenix · AZ
Gumbo

The first jammed out "Gumbo" features a funky jam with Trey laying it down on his wah pedal. The jam begins to get spacey while Trey starts high pitched noodling out of a which a 4 chord descending pattern (not MLB) develops, with some beautiful work by Page (which sadly doesn't last long).

Ghost

Mellow "C&P"-like groove into Monster Funk ending in Went "Gin"-like jam. [A typically funky '97 version releases and then breaks into an excellent upbeat and hose-filled groove.]

Loving Cup

Another rager to close the first set.

Run Like an Antelope

Awesome, extended, and uniquely remarkable version that departs into a low-key, melodic and exploratory groove that has moments of really beautiful, major mode jamming before working back into nasty old "Antelope."

Twist

Exploratory version with some variations on the "Twist" theme through 9:10, when the jam breaks away. After some brief engine grinding, a dark, dissonant section emerges, before eventually brightening and -> to "Taste."

Taste

-> in from "Twist." Pretty intense section towards the end of Trey's solo where the whole band is just hammering away. Great Mike on this one.

1997-07-30Ventura County Fairgrounds · Ventura · CA
Chalk Dust Torture

Brother to versions from 6/20/95, 7/30/03 and 7/16/13. Incredible improvisation packed into this 10 minute version.

Stash

Although largely straightforward, there is a nice shift to major mode at about 7:42, plus a very gradual build up to the peak.

David Bowie

Features an epic, mid-jam "Bowie" -> "Cities" -> "Bowie." And interspersed among a substantial amount of tight, well-played "Type I" jamming are several forays that get beyond "Bowie."

Cities

Fantastic -> in from "David Bowie" and -> back to "David Bowie."

David Bowie

-> in from "Cities" to conclude this heavy-duty "Bowie."

1997-07-31Shoreline Amphitheatre · Mountain View · CA
Ya Mar

First version since 6/20/88 that really breaks into a jam outside of typical "Ya Mar" structure. Not too far out there, but definitely a quality version.

Limb By Limb

Band-wide cohesion on display here, as all four deftly contribute to this complex and well-played version.

You Enjoy Myself

Magnificently intricate, spell-binding, hypnotic jam (with strange "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" teases). (No B&D.)

Runaway Jim

Multi-faceted improvisational version that includes funk, power jamming, quieter space, punchy, rhythmic funky stuff, and more space with a -> to "When The Circus Comes."

Mike's Song

The 1st jam begins in moderately funky mode and the power intensifies as it goes, but otherwise is straightforward. The 2nd jam starts in rock mode, then settles down to quieter, contemplative play. Finally, the power throttles up into a slightly dissonant and intense peak.

1997-08-02Gorge Amphitheatre · George · WA
Divided Sky

Only played 4 times in 1997, Trey's restraint in this soaring, sunset version from the Gorge (released on Live Bait Vol. 4) allows the others to shine, and being that it's 1997, Mike surely does.

Wolfman's Brother

Sure, you can characterize this as "Type I." But within that, you get 6 solid minutes of '97 funk and 6+ minutes of power-rocking release action before returning to "Wolfman's" to close.

Down with Disease

All kinds of good funk in this strong version that -> into "Tweezer," after which "DwD" arguably returns for a minute or two.

Tweezer

Segues out of "Disease." Brief "DWD" tease near the end as well. Very laid-back, slow, funk-ish version. Weak at times, though.

Harry Hood

After Trey asks CK5 to kill the lights so fans can enjoy the Gorge starlight, a stunning and sublime jam ensues.

1997-08-03Gorge Amphitheatre · George · WA
Foam

> in from "Bathtub Gin." Very cool, exploratory Page solo. Trey's solo is enhanced by an echo-like effect. A bass and percussion rich build-up leads to a soaring finish. If you aren't on the edge of your seat when the final verse starts, your soul has gone missing!

Vultures

> "Dirt", the version demonstrates considerable growth over a short period of time. Page's fills fall like scales between Fish's off-kilter percussion, the jam itself a revelation. Trey's riffing and soloing is forceful, with each musician acutely attuned and playing "out" as if a means to somehow…

Twist

A good, rocking and bluesy jam develops at 7:30 and continues until -> to "Jesus Just Left Chicago."

Jesus Just Left Chicago

-> in from "Twist." Great version from the Gorge with Page switching keyboards and a fiery ending to the jam.

Limb By Limb

A very different version from 7/31/97, with more staccato playing by Trey, and minor key fills from Page at points.

Julius

Jam begins in a great, bluesy groove with Page on the B-3 for a few minutes before he jumps to the piano. Trey is relaxed in his playing, gradually building this one up, but never loses the swinging feel.

Fluffhead

Beginning in 1997 and forever since, "Fluffhead" has suffered from some performance malaise. Whether due to lack of practice, fewer live performances, or other causes, the band's precision has declined. Yet this summer 1997 version is an anomaly, a nearly flawless rendering. Thank you Kevin Shapiro…

Taste

Around 6:30, this version comes very close to breaking free of "Taste" altogether into free form improvisation. Fantastic peak and finale.

1997-08-06Riverport Amphitheater · Maryland Heights · MO
Runaway Jim

Jam settles around 6:50 into some glorious melodic space, rebuilds around 10:00 with some nice blues licks, settles again, then morphs into a serious blues jam with a -> to "My Soul."

Run Like an Antelope

Not way out there but has several sections that stretch beyond the typical structure, including a great "Makisupa" jam in the "Rocco" section with Page on theremin and Mike on a mini-drum.

1997-08-08New World Music Theatre · Tinley Park · IL
Gumbo

Not a funk fest like most '97 "Gumbos." Trey-led soloing over a funky groove leads to a more rock and roll jam with a repetitive riff from Trey.

It's Ice

Weird, spacey, Trey-Mike-led jam.

Wolfman's Brother

Multifaceted jam that works through several funk sections, quickly lets loose to rock mode, then returns to more funk and more rocking before -> to "Free."

Free

Great -> in from a very solid "Wolfman's Brother." The jam while similar to the post '95 - '96 jam is its own beast; very cool.

Limb By Limb

In addition to (typically '97) adept playing, this version also has a cool build to the big peak, starting at about 7:40.

Chalk Dust Torture

Raging version that keeps rising from one peak to the next.

1997-08-09Alpine Valley Music Theatre · East Troy · WI
Theme from the Bottom

Very strong group interplay, between Trey and Page in particular, but also between Mike and Fish, gives this version a sound and dynamic almost like "Taste" or "Limb By Limb."

Ghost

Big bass techno-funk. Fine segue into "Taste." [Funk -> release as expected, but the release is short before delving into more funk, then settling to some excellent, quiet introspective play which -> to "Taste."]

Taste

-> in from "Ghost." Powerful version in which the whole band keeps rocking full tilt throughout the slot where Trey customarily takes the lead. Fish is the hidden gem holding rhythm in check while Trey and Page frenetically spiral up and up the scales.

Reba

This super, Summer '97 version received recognition when released via Live Bait Vol. 11. Trey ignites a bouncy, infectious groove, which, in time, morphs into more metered jamming. Mike's playing is particularly strong, offset by great percussion, which bleeds into a heightened breakdown, the band…

Foam

Unusual second set placement. Listen to this one back-to-back with 8/3/97. Both masterpieces. But very different performances. Here Page's solo is less adventurous, but finishes in a rousing manner. Trey deploys very different effects from the preceding version, with surgical precision. And of cour…

Scent of a Mule

Page > guitar and bass duet as a response > whole band in a cacophony of noise > pause > more noise > straight to final verse with no klezmer.

Slave to the Traffic Light

Such a graceful version. In 1997, the band was in no hurry to rush things. Here the patient building makes the eventual, huge peak that much sweeter. > to "Weekapaug."

Weekapaug Groove

-> in from "Slave," capping a nearly set-long "Mike's Groove." After a percussive start with hints of "CYHMK," Trey hoses down the crowd beginning at 3:30. The jam climaxes with "CYHMK" teases, and Trey bids good night while the music rolls on.

1997-08-10Deer Creek Music Center · Noblesville · IN
Split Open and Melt

Improvisational heavyweight version which breaks into a full jam on King Crimson's "Larks' Tongues In Aspic Part II" around 10:25. From there, it settles, then rebuilds into "SOAM" with a quick tempo and "Third Stone from the Sun" teasing. Released on Live Bait 12.

Harry Hood

Reaches a near-transcendent peak, and closes the first set in a brilliant fashion. Practically "HOSE." IT.

Cities

Amazing jam that begins in heavy funk mode and transitions to a more quiet vibe before shifting into high gear with some serious rock and roll. The jam then breaks into some beautiful, peaceful and textured playing ("HOSE") before rebuilding into a powerful groove. -> into "GTBT.&…

1997-08-11Deer Creek Music Center · Noblesville · IN
Maze

-> in from "Makisupa." Many of the later '90s versions are extended, but don't carry nearly the same punch as those from the '93 - '96 era. Not here though, this one is like getting teeth extracted, one by one and without novocaine: long and painful.

Run Like an Antelope

The jam veers away from the normal structure several times, adding tension and anticipation when it returns to "Antelope."

Vultures

The band still toying with set placement, here, "Vultures" anchors the second set for the second time, and with great results. While a true appraisal will only coincide with the arrival of a crisper AUD (or SBD!), what IS clear is that Trey has grown comfortable playing within the "confines" of th…

You Enjoy Myself

Weird jam segment and vocal close. (No B&D.)

1997-08-13Star Lake Amphitheatre · Burgettstown · PA
Gumbo

The longest version to date starts off with a loose funk groove that develops into an air tight polyrhythmic groove which Trey eventually starts to solo on top off before fading out into "The Horse."

Crosseyed and Painless

The song portion is played slower than normal. The beginning of the jam is vintage '97 funk, goes into some classic "crosseyed-esque jamming" before drifting into some spacier realms.

Wilson

Christmas comes early to Star Lake when the full band delivers a "Little Drummer Boy" jam in the post "blat" section.

Runaway Jim

Incredible, straight-forward set-opener. What the jam might lack in terms of inventive improvisation (evinced earlier, and throughout Summer 1997's tour) is more than compensated for by way of tight, full-band play, and absolutely incendiary Trey, who puts on a clinic.

Also Sprach Zarathustra

Big deep groove, with some sweet staccato patterning from Trey in the second jam.

1997-08-14Darien Lake Performing Arts Center · Darien Center · NY
Run Like an Antelope

Gets beyond "Antelope" at several points, including brief major mode action (5:40 - 6:30), rhythmic variation, a brief settle, and good tension building before mounting a serious and dissonant peak.

Jam

-> in from "Hood." An ambient jam starts as "Harry" ends, morphing into an exploratory funk-based one. > to "Forbin."

1997-08-16Loring Commerce Centre · Limestone · ME
Chalk Dust Torture

Great example of why '97 is such a pivotal year in Phistory. Here they stretch and expand the music everywhere possible without ever really getting beyond "CDT" proper.

Theme from the Bottom

The band covers a lot of varied musical territory in this "Type I" version that includes a "What's The Use" tease.

Punch You in the Eye

Despite arriving in what Trey called a "bad set", this version's wah-funky intro was the most significantly augmented until "PYITE's" 2025 renaissance.

Ghost

Mellow big bass funk groove, no climax. [A nice gradual transition from the heavy funk to more open, upbeat play, which grows dissonant before latching onto a great rocking, powerful and percussive groove.]

Wolfman's Brother

Awesome, improvisational version that gets well beyond standard "Wolfman's." At 8:50, the jam breaks out of funk mode and starts to explore, masterfully linking several sections with great, inspired music before -> to a cool "Simple."

Simple

-> in from a fantastic "Wolfman's Brother." A bit quirky, this mellow "Simple" jam includes a jam on the "Theme from the Odd Couple," turns bluesy, and -> to "My Soul."

Jam

A stand-alone jam, sort of spacey, sort of funky follows "My Soul" and -> to "Slave To The Traffic Light"

Halley's Comet

A kind of grunge-like jam develops, with additional vocal refrain at about 10:00. The jam then departs "Halley's" altogether and develops into a swirly, minor key, bluesy Fish and Mike led exploration. "On Your Way Down" tease leads directly to a -> to "Cities."

Cities

Another SUPER SLOW, funky version from '97. Segues out of "Halley's Comet." The tempo picks up at about 8:40, and the funk comes on even thicker. Gets more rocking and bluesy before -> to "Llama."

Llama

-> in from "Cities." Great Page and a nasty, growling and extended Trey section. -> to "Lawn Boy."

Limb By Limb

The boys really stretch the jam out on this one nicely, and the playing is excellent. They also tack on a nice extended ending (was played near the end of day 1 of the Great Went) before transitioning to "Funky Bitch."

1997-08-17Loring Commerce Centre · Limestone · ME
Tweezer

Space Funk. "Cities"-like jam and "Simple" teases.

Taste

Powerhouse version from the Great Went. Riveting Page solo, skillful Trey solo, and spiraling crescendo finale.

Down with Disease

A paramount, must-hear version that includes multiple stages of funk, rock, and space funk, and concludes with an incredible Mike and Trey duet which -> to an equally transcendent "Bathtub Gin."

Bathtub Gin

-> in from a great "DwD." One of the most beloved Phish jams of all-time, and exhibit "A" for "Hose" jamming. The progression modulates to include a minor chord and combines with Trey's soaring lead play to produce a truly inspiring improvisation. Unfinished > "Uncle Pen".

Also Sprach Zarathustra

Mike and Trey take time to paint, then come back and light the earth on fire. Last five minutes could conjure the dead into a dance competition.

Harry Hood

Inspired by the first ever "Hood" glowstick war, Trey leads this fan favorite melodic jam to a thrilling peak.

Buffalo Bill

Jammed out a bit, with an extended Trey solo and a sweet drawn out transition starting at about 4:18, which at first sounds like "Boogie On" (not played since 1988, or 969 shows), but instead -> to "NICU."

Scent of a Mule

Page solo with others playing along > breaks into a funky jazzy jam > beautiful Page/Trey duet/jam joined by Mike and Fish -> Digital Delay Loop jam with "London Bridge Is Falling Down" teases -> "Mule" conclusion.

Digital Delay Loop Jam

-> in from "SOAMule." The "DDL" Jam is just part of an incredibly improvisational "Mule."

Scent of a Mule

-> in from "Digital Delay Loop" Jam to end this incredible "Mule."

Prince Caspian

Straightforward but extended, well played and hard rocking version closes Set III, Day 2 of the Great Went.

1997-11-13Thomas & Mack Center · Las Vegas · NV
Black-Eyed Katy

Debut. Standard version with a strong but typical jam, with assertive playing by Trey throughout. Page's grand piano lends some unique flavor as the jam peaks.

You Enjoy Myself

Very catchy theme in the jam! (No B&D.)

Stash

Jam shifts into major mode at about 10:40, then teeters between sentiments in quiet contemplation. Around 17:00, the jam begins to work its way back to "Stash" proper.

Prince Caspian

> in from "PYITE." Just a rock solid '97 from start to finish. Trey really pours his heart into this one. > to "BATR."

Mike's Song

A really great and different groove is established early in the 1st jam, before drifting back into more typical territory. The jamming moves back out for more of the original groove, including great scratch funk around 8:30. The 2nd jam kicks in at 10:10 and features gentle and soothing play with "…

Weekapaug Groove

Spirited and soaring jamming mellow uptempo as after 5:10 with some solid "CYHMK" teases and jamming, before finishing in a raging style with "CYHMK."

Loving Cup

Quite a strong Trey solo, have a listen!

1997-11-14The “E” Center · West Valley City · UT
Gumbo

Quickly breaks down into a Mike-led "cow funk" jam, that eventually dissipates into quiet ambiance and delay loops. Welcome to Fall '97.

Also Sprach Zarathustra

"FEFY" dissolves into a gorgeous intro. "C&P"-like second jam features one of the coolest Mike basslines of any version.

Wolfman's Brother

The post-funk release is not your typical "feel good" rocking crescendo, but a quiet transition into minor mode darkness before subtly switching to major mode and -> to "Piper."

Twist

> in from "Piper." The jam starts off typically, but soon morphs into a swirling and dissonant beast. An extended Trey solo follows this section and > to an epic "Slave To The Traffic Light."

Slave to the Traffic Light

Epic, long version that works very well. Impeccably well-played. Here, the journey, rather than the ending, is what really counts (although the ending is pretty spectacular, too).

1997-11-16McNichols Arena · Denver · CO
Farmhouse

Debut features Page deploying the now familiar watery keyboard effects he would use for most of the '90s, while Trey briefly shows off his Hendrix-esque skills in a culminating trill.

Timber (Jerry the Mule)

Long intro to this big Set II opener featuring a jam that begins in typical "Timber" style, then shifts to delicate and serene major mode playing in the final minutes. Unfinished with a -> to "Simple."

Harry Hood

A remarkable version in which the band repeatedly tests the "Type I" boundary after 12:30, with Page in particular altering the harmonic underpinning several times. Closes with a truly magnificent peak and > to "Izabella."

David Bowie

Nice old fashioned "Bowie" that breaks free in a few spots and is flush with tension and dissonance.

1997-11-17McNichols Arena · Denver · CO
Tweezer

Very popular version, but check out the highlighted versions in this table if this version does IT for you (especially those in fall 1997).

Ghost

Raging space funk. [The expected funk breaks into fantastic and towering blissful play, then shifts to great rocking and funk-driven jamming which gradually mellows. A fan favorite "Ghost."]

Johnny B. Goode

After concluding the song proper, the band launches into a high-quality jam which retains Fall 97's tone and timbre but is also a bit of a throwback to an earlier era with its spiraling, "DEG"-laced opening segment. The second half finds a space more emblematic of the tour with Trey's ethereal wah…

Jesus Just Left Chicago

-> in from "Johnny B. Goode." Page rocks the 88s, then Trey leads the band in a blistering, intense blues fest.

You Enjoy Myself

A great, unconvential YEM to be sure... but still probably the most overrated YEM in history.

1997-11-19Assembly Hall, University of Illinois · Champaign · IL
Llama

-> in from "Bathtub Gin." Blistering playing by Trey harkens back to the "Llama" Golden Age of '90 - '92.

Fee

Ethereal outro with "Meatstick" quotes and a -> to a hot "Antelope."

Also Sprach Zarathustra

Incredible from start to finish. This has it all! Tempo changes, jazzy grooving, full band mastery, sirens, and of course danceability. Brilliant.

Wolfman's Brother

Exploratory, extremely "Type II" version. Following some classic '97-style cow funk, the jam ranges from blissfully serene and settled ground, to an extended, Trey-led blistering and somewhat dissonant section, then on to Page and Mike dominated blues rocking. This "Wolfman's" has it all, including…

Makisupa Policeman

An extended, effects laden space jam begins around 5:45 and comes to a climax at 9:36, then drops right back into "Makisupa". Excellent version.

Taste

"DEG" tease from Trey. Another strong '97 version. Maybe not up there with the incredible batch from the Summer, but Trey's solo is patient, very gradually building up the intensity from a relaxed base. Page is rock solid.

Possum

Funky intro with great Mike. Excellent straightforward jam gets intense and chaotic, then turns bluesy and rocking.

1997-11-21Hampton Coliseum · Hampton · VA
Emotional Rescue

A dark and stormy groove with Fall '97's unique sound. Funk is the predominant style initially but the jam becomes more ambient and throbbing towards the end and taps into that same enveloping power found in the next night's "Halley's" jam.

Prince Caspian

Jam is well played but typical - then there is a long digital delay loop fade out instead of the usual closing chords.

AC/DC Bag

> in from "Ghost." The band dexterously weaves together layers of hard rock, funk, and delicate, ambient space almost imperceptibly, as the transitions are so fluid. Difficult to break into easily defined sections or movements, it's more like a dynamically evolving life form. -> to "Slave To The Tr…

Slave to the Traffic Light

-> in from a monster "Bag." '94 and '97: Great years for Phish and for "Slave." But the styles (for both) are very different. This "Slave," like many '97s, has a feeling of gradual building, rather than skyrocketing from valley to peak.

1997-11-22Hampton Coliseum · Hampton · VA
Mike's Song

Single jam format, but there's a lot going on in this funk filled fan favorite. Patient but clearly directed, the band works the basic groove over and over, adding texture and accent, swelling and shrinking the energy. Around 12:00, the focus shifts to quieter musing and exploration, before finiall…

Weekapaug Groove

A fan favorite show opens with a strong "Mike's Groove." "Weekapaug" begins with strong "Type I" jamming through 6:50, when it shifts to '97-style funk mode with a slightly dark tone. The funk ends with a "stop" and returns to "Weekapaug" in very good form.

Harry Hood

This patient "Hood" has an extended and very gradual build. The peaking section in the final few minutes is quite glorious.

Halley's Comet

Starting off in a funky, mellow groove, the jam gradually grows legs and momentum with excellent contributions from all four. At about 18:00, the jam downshifts to a more quiet, pensive sentiment with occasional flashes of powerful bass and percussion. A must-hear classic.

Tweezer

Popular, widely circulated funky version. "BEK" teases.

1997-11-23Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum · Winston-Salem · NC
Theme from the Bottom

Great, tight playing by all. Page adds some unusual horn-like effects as well as some descending piano progressions towards the end. > to "Black-Eyed Katy."

Black-Eyed Katy

Extended, explosive jam. Vintage Fall '97 hard rock that reaches a screaming, full-band climax. Builds on the strong version from the night before.

Twist

Excellent version which develops its own groove with a somewhat dark undertone.

Stash

After a brief shift to major mode, the tension ratchets up noticeably. At 10:45, Mike and Fish break into a droning, repetitive groove which Trey and Page play over. This thunderous thrumming continues and -> to "NICU."

Bathtub Gin

Improvisational, hard-rocking "Gin." At 13:00, following a well-played, "Type I" section, the jam breaks into 13 minutes of blistering, intense arena-style rock, before mellowing into great '97-style low-key jamming. -> to "DwD."

Julius

Some great, fire stoking playing by Trey as he brings this hot show to a fitting close.

1997-11-26Hartford Civic Center · Hartford · CT
Tweezer

Funk soars into some excellent, transcendent, arguably "hose" improv.

Gumbo

Funky jam has nice interplay between band members. Stacatto-ey at times with some "Manteca" teases. At 8:00 Mike starts a theme that they play around with for a couple minutes before Trey takes over with a solo that leads into My Soul.

McGrupp and the Watchful Hosemasters

An excellent version arriving midway through an excellent first set. Following a strong composed section, Page crafts an inspired passage, gently working a pleasant melody. Trey responds in kind, offering the perfect counter to Page's playing. While different from the typcially comedic "Mule-D…

Taste

Unbelievable playing by Trey and the others as the band builds to a HUGE peak and then drives up over another. 7/22/97 is (literally) electrifying; 8/3/97 is unusually improvisational. This version is just phenomenal, with masterful contributions by all band members.

Character Zero

This uniquely jammed out version maintains a heavy rock vibe for the duration and features multiple Trey solo sections. -> "2001".

Also Sprach Zarathustra

First jam is stellar, highlighted by the 5:00-7:00 mark. Second jam goes "Super Bad" stop-start and your clothes will be shed on the ground. Segue into "Cities" is great.

Cities

Segues out of "2001." Nice mellow groove tacked onto the outro. -> to "Ya Mar."

Prince Caspian

> in from "PYITE." Soaring and shredding guitar playing by Trey. Stellar backing from the others.

1997-11-28Worcester Centrum Centre · Worcester · MA
You Enjoy Myself

Explosively funky, and extensive C&P teasing! (No B&D, no VJ.)

Black-Eyed Katy

The little brother of 11/23/97. Funky beginning and a great, extended peak.

Timber (Jerry the Mule)

Although it sticks with the "Timber" theme throughout, this is an excellent, well-played version. High quality SBD available on the "Spreadsheet."

Limb By Limb

Like driving across a mountain range, this version takes you over the first peak, you drop down a bit, then back up again, and again up over the very top, before finally heading down for good on the other side.

Slave to the Traffic Light

Somewhat unusual mid second set placement, before a serious "Ghost." This one and 8/9/97 have a bit more of the traditional "Slave" dynamic, with a serious peak, rather than a gradual swelling like other '97s.

Ghost

Raucous techno-funk with breakdown jam. [Strong funk through 9:45 when this one uncorks, quiets down to some cool low-key play, then rebuilds to a captivating and explosive finale and -> to "Johnny B. Goode."]

1997-11-29Worcester Centrum Centre · Worcester · MA
The Wedge

Slow and deliberate show-opener, featuring that signature Fall 1997 sound. Cool keys give way to soaring Trey. Fish drives great syncopation and full-band play. Great dynamics, as the sound is textured and nuanced, producing subtle and musical shifts in intensity.

Foam

No free-form improvisation like a big "Ghost" or "Tweezer," but within a self-imposed, rigorous construct, there is a hell of a lot of musical creativity going on in this characteristically '97-style stretched-out version.

Runaway Jim

Longest single Phish jam to date. Contains many different sections, and has been nicknamed the "Jim Symphony." Contains a thrilling "Weekapaug" jam.

1997-11-30Worcester Centrum Centre · Worcester · MA
Funky Bitch

Atypical version with a low-key funk groove tacked on the end in addition to the usual blues stylings. Unfinished.

Wolfman's Brother

Yin-Yang improvisational version. Following the expected funk, the jam breaks into 9+ minutes of lush, beautiful and delicate playing. But around 15:30, some dissonance creeps into the mix, and the boys then launch into an insane, heavy-metal "Pentagram Death Jam" with "Sanity" and "Esther" lyrics…

Stash

Has a magnificent, melodic jam in it beginning about 13:10. Pure unadulterated hose at one point. Unfinished with a -> to an excellent "Free."

Free

-> in from a monster "Stash." The only performance in Fall '97. In addition to an excellent, extended version, the band tacks on a nice 4 1/2 minute ambient jam to the back end of "Free." -> to "Piper."

Jam

> in from "Free." A nice ambient jam emerges on the back end of "Free" and -> to "Piper."

1997-12-02CoreStates Spectrum · Philadelphia · PA
Mike's Song

Exceptional single jam version which begins in funk/rock mode and grows increasingly powerful until 8:30, when the jam shifts into serious funk mode. After 12:00, the jam quiets to delicate, introspective play, before regaining its original juggernaut sense of power and -> to "Simple." This is enti…

Simple

Features a Trey and Page duet. A gorgeous, must-hear version which -> to a must-hear "Dog Faced Boy" which -> to a must-hear "Ya Mar."

Dog Faced Boy

-> in from "Simple." A beautiful and inspiring "DFB" follows a gorgeous "Simple" jam, and is part of a HUGE "Mike's Groove." -> to "Ya Mar" as the great stuff keeps coming.

Ya Mar

-> in from "Dog Faced Boy." Jam quickly moves away from conventional "Ya Mar" structure into a rhythmic, grooving foray with building intensity. "Crosseyed And Painless" tease," and a fantastic -> to "Weekapaug."

Weekapaug Groove

Thrilling, smooth -> in from "Ya Mar." This version completes a fantastic "Mike's Groove." "Weekapaug" starts off more slowly before coming up to speed, then dives into the thick funk. Swiftly after 6:00, the jam blasts off into an upbeat groove that keeps building, working the crowd into a frenzy…

Character Zero

Mellow - or offbeat - by "Zero" standards, the version, strangely musical, produces a fun and surprising "tripping up the steps" sensation. The band, clearly energized, performs at a much slower tempo, the song's customary forceful vibe created by shouting and Trey's deliberate, scuzzy soloing.…

1997-12-03CoreStates Spectrum · Philadelphia · PA
Drowned

Funkalicious! Great up-tempo version that highlights the band's peaking cohesiveness and improvisational talent during the Fall 1997 run.

Gumbo

A badass "type II" (and dark) groove develops before dissolving into space, out of which 2001 begins.

David Bowie

Long intro with teases and a signal. A wonderfully upbeat, major mode movement develops and continues for about 5 1/2 minutes before cycling back to "Bowie." The rub: it takes 18 minutes to get to this departure from standard fare. Unfinished with a fantastic -> to "Possum."

Jam

> in from "Possum." An excellent Fall '97-style funk jam develops on the tail end of "Possum" and -> to "Prince Caspian."

Prince Caspian

-> out of a jammed out "Possum." Trey takes the lead here, providing inspired melodic content. > to "Frankenstein."

1997-12-05CSU Convocation Center · Cleveland · OH
Runaway Jim

Fantastic, very improvisational jam that is quite different than most including beautiful quieter parts. -> into "My Friend."

Limb By Limb

The '97 "Limbs" were a great vintage, and this version is another excellent bottle well worth opening.

Julius

At about 7:30, departs from standard "Julius" into several new directions. Returns to the song several times, only to venture out again, further into new territory, including funk and reggae modes. Perhaps fitting that the only, truly exploratory "Julius" transitions to the only…

Slave to the Traffic Light

The "Type II" version. The band breaks into a dissonant, spacey jam following the standard one that eventually > to "The Lizards." "Slave" purists may not care for this one, but cannot deny its improvisational aspect.

Loving Cup

Would be interesting to know how many calories Trey burned while shredding the hell out of this one.

1997-12-06The Palace of Auburn Hills · Auburn Hills · MI
Run Like an Antelope

From a show known for its indelible second set, this terrific Fall '97 version lights up the first frame in the two-hole with a uniquely funky opening and then builds to full-power with heavy effects use from Trey. Thanks for the head's up from @jmart in getting this readded to the chart.

Foam

-> in from "Bathtub Gin." And, the -> is really top notch. Another stellar '97 version.

Maze

> in from "Fee." Modulation by Page with a crescendo pop gets this version cranked up, and then Trey adds some downright creepy effects to put this one into the mind melting category.

Tweezer

Just spectacular improv. MAGNIFICENT VERSION. MUST HEAR.

Izabella

-> in from a classic '97 "Tweezer." "Izabella" breaks away from the standard at about 4:20 into an excellent and funky groove which -> to "Twist."

Piper

-> in from "Twist." First Piper to really break out into improvisation. Jam is raging at first, mellows briefly, and then gathers fresh steam. There is no closing coda section (which would become more customary).

1997-12-07Ervin J. Nutter Center, Wright State University · Dayton · OH
Jesus Just Left Chicago

Fantastic -> in from "Psycho Killer." Played at a faster tempo, this one is more of a rocker and includes a "Rocky Mountain Way" tease.

It's Ice

"Swept Away" and "Steep" sandwich. Flawless segue to "Swept Away."

Swept Away

-> in from "It's Ice." "Swept Away" and "Steep" form the meat of this "Ice" sandwich. > to "Steep."

Steep

> in from "Swept Away." Part II of the meat of this "Ice" sandwich. > back to "Ice."

It's Ice

> in from "Steep" to complete this version of "Ice."

Theme from the Bottom

Precise and coordinated modulation between major and minor modes by Trey, Page and Mike give this excellent version a subtle sense of tension and release.

Tube

The first "Tube" to break out of the box begins with sweet funk in the first jam, while the jam reprise drops into some space, builds back up to more funk, and coasts into the -> to "Slave". A fan-favorite.

Slave to the Traffic Light

-> in from an awesome "Tube." Fan favorite version. Trey is really out in front on this one, soloing beautifully.

Timber (Jerry the Mule)

"Timber" opens Set II for the 5th consecutive time in as many appearances. This excellent version has a slightly less dark and somber vibe than most and is an almost upbeat, contemplative piece.

Wolfman's Brother

> in from "Timber." Great, short version loosens out of funk mode briefly, mellows into more funk and -> to the first "Boogie On Reggae Woman" in 988 shows (last seen on 9/13/88). The "Wolfman's" release really comes in the sweet jam out of "BORW."

Boogie On Reggae Woman

Busted out after a 989 show gap and segues smoothly out of Wolfman's Brother. The '97 style outro jam is distinct and deviates from the structure of "Boogie" at 5 minutes and is played at a slower tempo than recent versions. Transitions to a hot "Reba".

Possum

"Camel Walk"-like licks and polka scales in the intro. Very tight straightforward jam that ends with more polka-style chords.

1997-12-09Bryce Jordan Center, Penn State University · State College · PA
Mike's Song

The single jam has a funky bent at first. After working through some typical terrain, the funk comes back, especially after 8:30 when the jam takes on a "BEK"-like vibe, accentuated by some nice stop/start action.

Simple

The jam that emerges begins subtly, then grows some legs as Fish and Mike kick the funk into gear before morphing back into a quiet, contemplative jam. Extremely improvisational version. Seamless segue sounds at first like a move to "Bowie" but becomes "Timber" instead.

Timber (Jerry the Mule)

Segue -> in from a 30 minute "Simple," this version restores the jam to its typical place of darkness, and has an almost '95 psychedelic feel to it, with Fish kicking the percussion into heavier action.

1997-12-11Rochester War Memorial · Rochester · NY
Down with Disease

High octane jam flames out at 11:00 into an excellent Page and Mike led minimalist groove which -> to "Maze." There is also a -> "DwD" from "Ghost" later in this show to complete the earlier, unfinished version.

Maze

-> from DWD, the second in a trifecta of excellent Mazes from December 1997. Page delivers meaty play in the first half of the jam. The tension that follows builds primarily from the push and pull between the speed and adrenaline of the rhythm section led by Fish, and Trey's guitar lines which seem…

Limb By Limb

Superlative even among the standouts. The best "Limbs" build to a peak that reaches the stratosphere, then gradually work back down to earth. Listen to this version for a prime example.

Drowned

The jam keeps up a pretty good head of steam until about 12:00 when it settles into 9 minutes of high quality '97-style space funk/quiet bliss enhanced with delay effects. -> to "Roses Are Free."

Big Black Furry Creature from Mars

Wild version that segues out of Roses Are Free. It's highly improvisational in that after about 3 mins of "normal" (so to speak) BBFCFM, a Sturm-und-Drang, plodding jam evolves and trudges along for a few minutes, and then the band drops out as Trey sustains a note, then a chord, and, well, nothing…

Ghost

Blazing, rocking funk which -> to a "DwD" reprise. [A good, funky jam settles into some low-key grooving, then gradually develops a full head of steam, igniting into a blistering, raging eclipse which -> to "DwD Reprise."]

1997-12-12Pepsi Arena · Albany · NY
Taste

The Chairman of the Boards leads the way, but Big Red is no slouch either.

Tweezer

Another stellar fall 1997 version.

Saw It Again

"Saw It Again" rocks along in full power mode for a good 5 1/2 minutes before mellowing into '97-style ambient space and -> to a high quality "Piper."

Piper

-> in from "Saw It Again." Very improvisational version that modulates back and forth between hard rocking bursts and quiet, pensive moments. Includes a "BOAF" tease and beautiful space before > into "Swept Away."

Prince Caspian

-> in from "Swept Away > Steep." Straightforward until 10:07, when the band launches into a post closing chord, rocking, funky, and cerebral "Jam." Great Fall '97 improvisation here with a -> to "Izabella."

Jam

-> in from "Prince Caspian." A rocking, funky and cerebral jam emerges at the conclusion of "Caspian." Great Fall '97 jamming with similarities to "Llama." -> to "Izabella."

1997-12-13Pepsi Arena · Albany · NY
Ya Mar

At about 8:30, the opening chords are replayed, and the band breaks into a funky, upbeat 10 minute jam of exceptional quality. Must hear. SBD recording "From The Archives" available.

Vultures

Clearly comfortable, the band works through the intro into an awesome "middle" section featuring, unsurprisingly, inspired and deft play from Trey. The song loses its shape to assume a different form, the jam cooling after the 5:30 mark to become decidedly - and pleasantly - spacey, before a spirit…

Tube

Lots of funk in this very good version. Page leads the way with his clav and piano work.

Mike's Song

> from "Ghost". Filled with Trey and Fish's humorous vocal chanting, exclamations such as "Cactus", "Bring the Dude", and "Break it down Page!" initiate a chain of dissonant, heavy start/stop funk. Increasing in speed and intensity they build with the help of Trey and Fish's "Bring the Dude" theme.…

Weekapaug Groove

Excellent, adding an exclamation point to a multi-song "Mike's Groove." The jam dwindles into nothingness before -> "Catapult" and finishing strongly.

Catapult

-> in from "Weekapaug." "Catapult" is sandwiched amidst a strong "Weekapaug." -> back to "Weekapaug."

Weekapaug Groove

-> in from "Catapult", with a "CYHMK" tease, to complete another strong '97 "Weekapaug."

Harry Hood

The jam drifts away from the typical "Hood" quiet section into an ambient sort of section at 8:45. At 12:15, an excellent, rocking, and non-"Hood" rhythm kicks in and continues until 13:40, when a huge traditional peak erupts.

1997-12-28USAir Arena · Landover · MD
Julius

Nice mellow groovy jam that has some decent stylistic variation.

Cities

Mike and Page add a lot to the richly funky jam that becomes very repetitious, with Trey playing in a staccato manner.

Runaway Jim

The jam breaks into a nice funky groove around 8:00 and gradually winds down into space with delay effects.

Axilla

A low-key and at times melodic and serene outro jam emerges from the standard before > to a solid "Simple."

Simple

Jam begins in traditional fashion but eventually there's a somewhat inexplicable key modulation from Trey. A very unusual version that also includes Page on clavinet for a stretch.

Scent of a Mule

Guitar and piano jam with "Roundabout" teases instead of traditional Mule Duel. Eventually the whole band joins in quiet but suspenseful jam that is quality music.

Halley's Comet

A crisp, tight, high energy jam - the band is really locked in on this one. Shorter than some, but well worth the visit!

1997-12-29Madison Square Garden · New York · NY
Theme from the Bottom

Blistering, high octane version with nice concluding transition space and a > to "Fluffhead."

Run Like an Antelope

Straightforward but well played jam, followed by some downright filthy funk jamming in the "Rocco" section.

Down with Disease

Fearsome but exploratory jam. Moments of quiet settle are repeatedly upended by intense funk rocking. This legitimate monster "Disease" finally gives up a little belligerence only to -> into a very strong "David Bowie."

David Bowie

Excellent and thrilling version with strong musicianship. Mode shift out of typical (but very well played) "Bowie" at 13:55 into a great groove which peaks and returns to "Bowie" by 17:00.

Possum

> in from a strong "Bowie". Fun version with two "I Can't Turn You Loose" jams, one at the onset of the jam and the other appearing after the last chorus.

I Can't Turn You Loose

-> from "Possum". The first "I Can't Turn You Loose" section pops up early in "Possum's" jam and then > back to "Possum".

Possum

The main "Possum" jamming occurs here and includes extended Page lead sections on organ and piano, before Trey gets his licks in later on.

I Can't Turn You Loose

Another round of "I Can't Turn You Loose" puts a cap on a solid "Possum".

Tube

Absolutely locked-in version with seamless interplay, breakdown solos by Trey, Page, and Mike, and "I Feel the Earth Move" teasing. One of the greats.

1997-12-30Madison Square Garden · New York · NY
Sneakin' Sally Thru the Alley

First performance in 920 shows, opens first set of a highly regarded show. Nice '97 style funk/rock groove follows the lyrical section. A very unhurried, patient feel to this one. -> to "Taste", and is reprised and finished in the 4-part funk-fest encore.

Taste

-> in from an historic "Sneakin' Sally." Strong version, but quite different from most of the Fall '97 versions. Here, Trey solos beautifully, but Page's role seems far more restrained. There is far less of a full band build towards the end than musical support for Trey's incredible soloing. To som…

Stash

Great version where Mike and Fish drive the jam into improvisational territory, including some "Manteca"-like jamming around 8:20, and the ending section dissolves in a quiet but tense manner.

AC/DC Bag

Opening an incredible 2 1/4 hour-long Set II, the second monster "Bag" combines the same elements as the first - funk, rock, and delicate space, but in a completely different manner and configuration. Includes "Third Stone From The Sun" and "Psycho Killer" teases with a > to "McGrupp." A must-hear…

McGrupp and the Watchful Hosemasters

With Mike and Page out front early, Trey ultimately enters the fray, and he and Page break into an eerie, counterpoint-based duet of sorts, with Mike and Fish nearly absent from the mix. Mike and Fish finally jump back in, creating a tense, throbbing sentiment which gradually dissipates with no con…

Harry Hood

With no final refrain, an atypically uptempo jam breaks into a rocking/bluesy groove at 16:45 and -> to "My Soul."

Sneakin' Sally Thru the Alley

In from BEK ->, the second "Sneakin' Sally" of this fan favorite show functions as a funky reprisal of the major bust-out that opened the evening's festivities. Jumps right into a jammed-out show-closing > Frankenstein.

Frankenstein

> in from "Sneakin' Sally." Part 4 of an incredible 4-song encore, and this "Frankenstein" is jammed-out, taboot!

1997-12-31Madison Square Garden · New York · NY
Emotional Rescue

Compared to Hampton, a snappier, more uptempo funk groove unfolds and intensifies in the later stages with brief rock flurries.

Mike's Song

Yeah, this is a badass version alright, with a monster, Mike-led groove (it is after all, Mike's song). It's got funk, but not as much as some of the other '97s. And it's got power. At around 9:40, there's a stop, and then a 2nd jam of sorts begins, delicate bliss mode play that sets up well for th…

Weekapaug Groove

Among the longest "Weekapaugs" to date, this version provides a fitting capstone to 1997. After 14 minutes of balls-to-the-wall, but largely in-the-box jamming, Trey, then Mike, then Page -- and after some Trey banter -- Fish, take solos to send the crowd hurtling towards 1998 (and "2001").

Maze

> in from "Tweezer." Despite its duration, at various points this version seems to lose its bearing, especially from 13:10 on. But it's well worth checking out. Includes a "Birdland" tease and is unfinished with a > to "Prince Caspian."

Loving Cup

This is how to close a third set on NYE! Crazy-raw, rough playing by all!

Most charted songs

The vehicles. No surprises up top, which is exactly the point.

Freshly charted

The latest versions to earn a flag, newest night first.

Ether Edge2026-05-02Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Unidirectional and cohesive, the jam here is focused and the band is locked in from the start with little deviation to deliver a grin inducing and arm raising ride that accelerates to a very satisfying peak before crashing > into Llama.

Kill Devil Falls2026-05-02Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Thematic jamming that bounces along at an even pace with little deviation and only slight modulation but stays focused without wasting time searching and delivers a steady stream of memorable moments that accumulate rather than peak.

Ruby Waves2026-05-02Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

One last 20-minute jam before the run ends. The jam starts out energetic, as most “RW” jams do, and keeps its pace for a while until it turns into time to try and see if the aliens can be summoned. Fish seems not ready to stop rocking, so he finds a way to get the rest of the band back on that path…

My Friend, My Friend2026-05-02Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Rocking outro gives way to a fairly propulsive, beguiling groove textured with thick bass and then winds down over the course of several minutes in a decidedly off-kilter manner.

Seven Below2026-05-01Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Trey’s relaxed comping immediately sets the tone of the jam from the onset, establishing a hazy low-key vibe. Mike then introduces a tonal pivot towards minor key territory which platforms a harmonically-rich and at times sci-fi textured atmosphere. As Page moves to the piano, more organic/clean pl…

Plasma2026-05-01Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

> from a “Seven Below” you’ll want to check out. Clearly comfortable in the venue on the penultimate night of their run, the band drops “Plasma” in the two-hole of a four song suite lasting around an hour. The band toys with effects as the jam flows along effortlessly before > into a massive “C&P”.

Crosseyed and Painless2026-05-01Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Emerging from the song proper into a melodic take on the main Crosseyed riff thus setting the table with an emotional build. HEROIC riff from Trey around 840 channels Eno's St Elmo's Fire. We shift around 12:25 into an overdrive rock jam before fading back into an minimalistic groove. The return to…

Saw It Again2026-05-01Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

This version earns its “noteworthy” status by way of a comical instrument switch-up between Trey and Fishman, as Trey takes on the drum chair to allow Fish to blow sweet music on his vacuum. Trey then introduces Fishman by a few of his famous aliases before ending the tune.

Leaves2026-04-30Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Shifts into minor at 6:30 and becomes darkly atmospheric with extensive Trey soloing as it builds dramatically to a final chorus of "breathe".

Punch You in the Eye2026-04-30Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

2026 picks up where ‘25 left off in regards to the extended intro section of this classic rocker. The band remains committed to ‘punching up’ the play here with synth effects as well as some additional clean leads from Trey to guide the affair into the song proper. The “Landlady” section still sadl…

Swampy murk-rock typical of “ASIHTOS” gives way to a patient, dreamy vibe at the 5:00 mark before quickly pivoting back towards psychedelic minor-key space rock. The band holds tight here as the music blooms inward, highlighting a loose but but directional vibe. The jam then threatens a full-on fun…

A Wave of Hope2026-04-30Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

A laid-back opening then turns briefly darker for a minute around 11:00, after which the intensity picks up and the jam crests with a powerfully sustained peak, and finally washes away in a disconcerting ambient deconstruction which eventually > "Caspian".

Runaway Jim2026-04-30Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Standard “Jim” play begins to hint at something more as Trey briefly abstracts his tone with effects towards the front of the jam. As the harmonic range opens up a bit, a downshift just before the 9:00 mark takes the jam into a murky zone. Fishman’s skittering rhythms underpin an almost futuristic…

The Sloth2026-04-30Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

39 years after its debut, "The Sloth" makes history with its first encore appearance and first version to feature a bonus segment of hard rock jamming tucked inside of the composition.

Axilla (Part II)2026-04-25Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

After warning some hot dogs to get out of his face, Trey is primed and ready to take Axilla deep again. The band is comfortable hanging in the murk of the song and doesn’t rush towards any of their “comfort jamming zones.” The jam feels gooey as it oozes along. Those who don’t need their jams to pe…

Cities2026-04-25Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Cosmopolitan jam that stays fairly close to home rhythmically but departs melodically under Trey’s lead, brightening and decorating the neighborhood with a brisk and buoyant optimism and a gentle uplift before returning to the song to conclude.

Halley's Comet2026-04-25Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Steps out of the box with low-key minor jamming which then becomes more mellow and dreamy as it transitions to major with synths and then > "Blaze On".

Chalk Dust Torture2026-04-25Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

A dark, spooky, and contemplative affair that maintains forward momentum thanks to Fish’s pushing before shifting efficiently to an upbeat melodic climb with familiar motifs and a crushing climax that decays into an ambient sample laden froth.

Set Your Soul Free2026-04-24Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Bliss-rock at the front gives way for more assertive, rocking play before a series of modulations begins a push and pull between major and minor key tonalities. Settling towards a funky rock zone, the band finds stability and turns the jam into am ebullient, funk-rock rave-up with a smidge of space…

The jam vehicle of the mid-2020s drives forward in a thick groove space right out of the gates. At 10:20 Trey moves into a rawk space before sliding into a Page/Trey duel that brings back memories of Fall 2021 Phish. Trey's chordal bursts at 16:15 push the jam into a new direction before building t…

Piper2026-04-24Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

A true slow build Piper, the jam builds like all Pipers do before locking in around a Trey and Fishman duel. A chordal peaking jam, this never strays too far from what Piper does best, but it's worth hearing all the same.

Gumbo2026-04-23Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Momentarily bordering on plinko to kick things off, the jam becomes echo laden and accented with a dark groove as Trey briefly plays on the low end and Mike’s effects cast a shadow that serves as contrast to what follows. Trey’s lead becomes more linear and Page responds in lockstep. The whole affa…

Fuego2026-04-23Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Opening with snarling leads from Trey, this shifts at 9:40 into a more open terrain before Fishman takes command of the jam's direction. Wall of sound Mike and Page moves into a late-nite ambient space highlighted by Trey and Page trading delicate riffs around 13min. Moving deeper into the ether, t…

Dark Puddle2026-04-23Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Emerging from a swirl of abstract sound, the world's lone Dark Puddle is vibrant and free of form; high quality abstract jamming. Building to a major-key peak around 1045 we descend into Mike-led Fuego quotes before another build just after 13min. We hear the road not taken at Sphere where the visu…

Golden Age2026-04-23Sphere · Las Vegas · NV

Moving into a familiar hypnotic groove space we shift at 9:15 to a deeper groove which thus opens the space for the jam to blossom. Mike and Fish dominate here before Trey shifts the band into Fuego.

Jam chart entries and descriptions are curated by phish.net, a project of the non-profit Mockingbird Foundation.

Dates tinted by era:1.0 · 1983–20002.0 · 2003–20043.0 · 2009–now