Phish - July 31st, 2021

Fish starts toying with his "YEAH" sample during Trey's crooning at the end of the song proper to let him know he's ready to jam (the sample also makes an appearance or two later on). This is the band fully leaning into one of their most reliable "jam vehicles" and sounding like one organism. There are multiple parts that make the listening wonder, "Who's playing what?" Page rocks his synth to give this jam that quintessential 2021 sound, he and Mike have some excellent interplay around 14:00 before Trey takes everyone back into the chorus.

While not as fast as a 93 (or even come 9/3), the version is extremely well-executed, and typifies one facet of what’s so fun about Phish: Four friends playing as one. Trey’s play is self-assured, his warm tone welcome and offset by fantastic Fish, whose fills and flourishes standout - even for Fish. Mike anchors the version as the band hits their changes and takes their runs, with Page predictably great on his concert G.

With an "and away we go" hand gesture from Trey, the band moves into parts unknown, maneuvering first into an upbeat and sprightly major key groove, then briefly turning more contemplative, before bursting into another fabulous uptempo major-key jam. Trey then goes to his "sludgy" effects and finds yet another key, and Fish turns on the Bunsen burners and the band blasts through one more wonderful groove. Damn good stuff, sir.

An important aspect of 2021's incredible sound is Page on acoustic piano. > from "Steam," that wonderful play is on display here, offering a sort of melodic grandeur as Trey, in pure "Caspian" fashion, soars. Play soons become heavy and rocking, with Trey's shift in tone, if not pitch, exactly, evoking earlier eras. Pushing and probing, the jam doesn't quite break free, but offers a lot by way of artistic exploration thanks to Page, who compliments Trey's impassioned play. Powerful percussion and thunderous bass round out what feels like a classic, throwback, arena-rocker. Fun and > for a unique mid-set "Golgi."