Phish - July 28th, 2023

Setting the tone for the highlight-rich MSG run to come, the band drops a multi-faceted monster in the 2 slot. Pure inertia pushes the band through several sections with impressive cohesion before eventually coalescing around a triumphant chord progression. All four band members then lock in to deliver a powerful climax, before yielding to the closing chorus.

Big Red's love affair with The Big Apple, coupled with his renewed interest in jamming "Cities," yields a whole lotta good points. Chill playing ushers in fantastic, truly rhythmic improvisation, Trey's strumming offering a shimmery, warm, almost shoegaze feel - and, most importantly, room for the entire band to breathe. Play pulses until just after the 8:00 mark, when Trey takes a really great lead, which he builds into patterned play that bursts with a celebratory vibe. A nod to Trey's old home place, indeed.

> "Ruby Waves," and breaking for "Simple," strong, almost muscular play, informed by righteous riffing, showcases, yet again, the song's promise as a true show stopper.

Eschewing the typical rocking Set 2 closer, this version of "Melt" is a complete and utter deconstruction. It's wild and daring. Fans of heavy, dark or "evil" Phish will want to check this one out ASAP.