Anyone going to Peach Fest to hear Pink Talking Fish playing Eat a Peach complete?
If you want to dole out the money you can go see Kendrick Lamar, Spoon, Elvis Costello, Arcade Fire, War on Drugs, Waxahatchee, the Fleet Foxes and much else this summer. This tired band is simply irrelevant.
The sophomoric humor of this band is offensive. If you can't write songs there's nothing wrong with being a cover band .
1
As someone who attended all 13 shows of Phish's Bakers Dozen - and having seen my first Phish show (of many) in 1991 - I so appreciated the grand tribute the band displayed as a residency for Madison Square Garden and their fans. With no repeated songs and living a mile from the venue, seeing all 13 shows was a no-brainier for me and an experience I'll never forget and always cherish. Being familiarly familiar with every song and most references, I proudly danced down memory lane for 13 glorious and unique shows. I thoroughly enjoyed every theme donut - encompassed by song choice, light showcases and actual donuts (I only got to try powdered and jam-filled). My favorite nights were Maple, Jam-Filled and Boston Creme. The musicianship of the band is top notch. Their knowledge of musical intricacies is matched only by their ability to deliver them seamlessly night after night. Thank you Phish, for over 25 years of fun intelligent music, simplex lyrics, and thoughtful fan experiences. Plus, I learned that the universe may actually be in the shape of a donut! Wins all around.
10
Come on people. Dead vs Phish again? Fare the well..
I respect Ratliff's acknowledgement that he doesn't care for Phish, which validates my yearly bewilderment at his year end best songs/artist list. Thanks!
I respect Ratliff's acknowledgement that he doesn't care for Phish, which validates my yearly bewilderment at his year end best songs/artist list. Thanks!
3
I love them both. The Dead a lot more, but listening to Phish cover Terrapin awesome. The way the crowd slowly started to realize what was going on and the cheers became a roar. Worth checking out.
I've traveled all over the country going to see Phish and have been to over 30 shows. In a highly-scheduled life, there's something refreshing about going to see a band really let loose and improvise - and to experience it with an audience that appreciates it. Unfortunately I did not make it out to MSG for this run (life gets in the way). Some of the best times of my life occurred at Phish shows with fellow travelers. Not every concert was a home run, but that's part of the magic isn't it? You know when you're seeing something special and unique when it happens.
8
What's with all the sour puss haggling over Phish and the Dead? Nobody owns a patent on unique and intensely loyal fans. Even an artful critic can't find fault with that. Hat's off to Phish's Doughboys and Girls that made it to all thirteen shows. At 61, I envy you; that's a previous day. At 61, I assure you, you'll still be spinning a great story about it.
5
Phake hippies. The biggest hippocrits . You would think that a billionaire like Dolan would be immune to the threats. "Our fans smoke. If you try to stop them from smoking we will never play here again" . when one of them gets cancer there will be a change . A letter to the phans; please don't smoke at the show. And it will stop. Meanwhile how many people are these peace loving hippocrits killing?
1
I was a Huge fan of Grateful Dead but Phish music never did anything for me. I saw my first Phish show at MSG last week and it ok. I left after intermission. The lighting was fantastic but the band itself was Blah. Not sure what the fans see in them. They all seem like a bunch of Geeks that somehow got famous. Sam Cutler the Rolling Stones and Dead's former manager wrote a scathing review of the partial Phish show he saw. A very entertaining read.
3
I'm sure I will get lots of hate rained down on me for this and plenty of insults, condescension and off-base assumptions, but....
First of all I love the Grateful Dead. I was lucky enough to see them more than 200 times between 1980 and 1994 (mainly pre-1991 though). Love everything about them. Listen to them daily.
I never cared for Phish and still don't. Their songs are just terrible with terrible lyrics. I am unimpressed by their musicianship. Musicianship is more than just dexterity and proficiency. There must be soul there and I find these Vermont prep school boys to be devoid of soul. Ability without feeling.
Now go ahead, Phish phans. Insult me personally. I fully expect it. It's what I've come to expect merely for having an opinion. Phish phans remind me of our current President. Very thin skinned and quick to lash out. I've never met one that was able to just say, "okay. You don't like Phish. That's cool. I happen to disagree, but you are entitled to your opinion." They tend to be either insulting and vicious or condescending (they pretend I don't "understand" improvisational music and prefer Justin Beiber instead. forgetting that I am a Deadhead and nothing could be further from the truth.)
First of all I love the Grateful Dead. I was lucky enough to see them more than 200 times between 1980 and 1994 (mainly pre-1991 though). Love everything about them. Listen to them daily.
I never cared for Phish and still don't. Their songs are just terrible with terrible lyrics. I am unimpressed by their musicianship. Musicianship is more than just dexterity and proficiency. There must be soul there and I find these Vermont prep school boys to be devoid of soul. Ability without feeling.
Now go ahead, Phish phans. Insult me personally. I fully expect it. It's what I've come to expect merely for having an opinion. Phish phans remind me of our current President. Very thin skinned and quick to lash out. I've never met one that was able to just say, "okay. You don't like Phish. That's cool. I happen to disagree, but you are entitled to your opinion." They tend to be either insulting and vicious or condescending (they pretend I don't "understand" improvisational music and prefer Justin Beiber instead. forgetting that I am a Deadhead and nothing could be further from the truth.)
3
okay. You don't like Phish. That's cool. I happen to disagree, but you are entitled to your opinion.
OTOH, I have met MANY a Deadhead who say they "hate, hate, hate Phish because they're a terrible band who write awful lyrics and really don't do much of anything interesting or worthwhile. Oh and their fans.. they're the worst," according to these Deadheads who make assumptions about people based on the music they like.
No offense Jeff S., and I am certainly not calling you names (like you did us), but take a look at that comment you wrote above. Think about what you expected from those of us who do love the band, and then consider how you insulted both the people in the band and the people who love this band for no reason other than you have expectations based on, what exactly?
Honestly, more often than not, when I meet a Deadhead who doesn't like Phish he (it's always a he), always explains to me how the Dead were a great band because they were first at what they were doing (no, they started out doing standards) and Phish is just terrible, awful, no good, very bad. Meanwhile, most of us Phish fans also like and respect the Dead, what they did for music in general and our brand of Jam bands specifically.
So, you don't like Phish? Ok. That's your opinion and though I disagree, I respect it. But don't disrespect me because you feel disrespected by the fact that a lot of people really do love a band you dont. It's just opinions man. We all have them and they're all right.
OTOH, I have met MANY a Deadhead who say they "hate, hate, hate Phish because they're a terrible band who write awful lyrics and really don't do much of anything interesting or worthwhile. Oh and their fans.. they're the worst," according to these Deadheads who make assumptions about people based on the music they like.
No offense Jeff S., and I am certainly not calling you names (like you did us), but take a look at that comment you wrote above. Think about what you expected from those of us who do love the band, and then consider how you insulted both the people in the band and the people who love this band for no reason other than you have expectations based on, what exactly?
Honestly, more often than not, when I meet a Deadhead who doesn't like Phish he (it's always a he), always explains to me how the Dead were a great band because they were first at what they were doing (no, they started out doing standards) and Phish is just terrible, awful, no good, very bad. Meanwhile, most of us Phish fans also like and respect the Dead, what they did for music in general and our brand of Jam bands specifically.
So, you don't like Phish? Ok. That's your opinion and though I disagree, I respect it. But don't disrespect me because you feel disrespected by the fact that a lot of people really do love a band you dont. It's just opinions man. We all have them and they're all right.
11
Wow. "Phish fans remind me of our current president". There's a lot of hatred in that statement. I'm 63 and probably your age, Jeff S. I also grew up on the Dead, seeing them at the Fillmore East and Capitol in the early 70s.
You don't like Phish? That's ok. But look in the mirror before you call us vicious, condescending, and insulting.
You don't like Phish? That's ok. But look in the mirror before you call us vicious, condescending, and insulting.
5
So, I always got the impression that Phish was sort of a meta band , ie a band that was sort of about the idea of a band giving concerts that were sort of about the idea of a live concert. So perhaps this review is fittingly about the idea of a review of a meta concert as it were. sort of a meta review of a meta band's meta concert.
Which if i think about it makes this a meta meta meta meta comment, but good review.
Question, does "good review" mean the review was well written and thought provoking or that the reviewer conveyed a desire to buy a ticket"
Does that get another meta on the stack and does asking add yet another meta so that like turtles it's meta all the way down?
Oh, and the answer to the titular rhetorical question: Because the grateful dead are unavailable?
Which if i think about it makes this a meta meta meta meta comment, but good review.
Question, does "good review" mean the review was well written and thought provoking or that the reviewer conveyed a desire to buy a ticket"
Does that get another meta on the stack and does asking add yet another meta so that like turtles it's meta all the way down?
Oh, and the answer to the titular rhetorical question: Because the grateful dead are unavailable?
"Because the grateful dead are unavailable? "
Sort of. As Hunter S. Thompson once said, "if the Grateful Dead are in town I'd beat my way in with a tire iron if necessary."
Me too. Phish? Nope. Yes, I've seen them. I'd rather have a root canal.
Sort of. As Hunter S. Thompson once said, "if the Grateful Dead are in town I'd beat my way in with a tire iron if necessary."
Me too. Phish? Nope. Yes, I've seen them. I'd rather have a root canal.
1
NYT, you should do a story on the thousands of kids huffing nitrous from white balloons outside of MSG during those 13 days. There is tons of video of it on the internet and I would say that sums up all you need to know about Phish and their fans.
3
Most phish fans, including myself, find the nitrous scene outside shows to be awful. If you knew anything about Phish besides your uninformed assumptions, you would already know that.
11
The nitrous scene existed en masse in the Grateful Dead lot, too. To each their own, personally think it's a straw man to attack a band based on the drug proclivities of a small percentage of their fans. I had a guy try to sell me heroin at a Radiohead concert, but extrapolating that Radiohead listeners are all junkies would be stupid, wouldn't it?
My point being, opinions are basically word farts.
My point being, opinions are basically word farts.
1
Thank god for bass and drums. Without them this would be the most horrible mish mash of wrong notes ever played. They are like the German Shepherds and Border Collies of the band.
1
As an avid music lover, large scale rock shows, generally speaking, don’t do anything for me. Phish is the exception.
I love going to see classical music at concert halls with great acoustics and jazz and hip-hop and experimental music in small, intimate spaces around NYC, but Phish is the only band who (for me) can make Madison Square Garden feel intimate and exciting.
I love going to see classical music at concert halls with great acoustics and jazz and hip-hop and experimental music in small, intimate spaces around NYC, but Phish is the only band who (for me) can make Madison Square Garden feel intimate and exciting.
10
I love Phish - and I've only seen them once. They are marvelous musicians.
In general, the NYT's cultural coverage is just awful - pompous, snide and terminally PC.
A pity, as it remains the single most important news source in the USA.
Mr.
In general, the NYT's cultural coverage is just awful - pompous, snide and terminally PC.
A pity, as it remains the single most important news source in the USA.
Mr.
5
Phish is like Barenaked Ladies to me; you get it or you don't. Either way, they are still going to go play their music and their fans are going to love it. Give me a band who can just get up and play for the crowd (for what, 30 years?). Phish doesn't hide behind techie post-production, and there was a day when most artists were like that. Seems to me we need to drink deeply from that authenticity once in awhile, even if we don't sing along.
And a blatant plug for my friend, photographer BC Kagan. She took some great pictures of them at various times, and did their Lawn Boy album cover. There was a time when photographers and bands just got together and shot pictures, in film, no photo-shop in sight.
And a blatant plug for my friend, photographer BC Kagan. She took some great pictures of them at various times, and did their Lawn Boy album cover. There was a time when photographers and bands just got together and shot pictures, in film, no photo-shop in sight.
7
I wonder if critics "don't take Phish seriously" because Phish doesn't take critics seriously. . . On the lyrics in particular; if you think that all the lyrics are simple-minded dopey silliness, then you are absolutely missing something.
Whatever your taste, this remains true: the music is sophisticated, well-written and widely varied. The musicians are talented and creative. The fans are engaged and devoted to the band and each other before, during, and after the show. And all involved are invested in each other's well-being, contagiously enthusiastic, and devoted to sharing Phish with anyone that will listen.
If the total body of work that is The Phish from Vermont doesn't lend itself to being easily evaluated, catagorized, and labeled by a music critic, then perhaps there's more to this art than a music critic can appreciate.
As a long-time fan, I leave you with only this: It's okay if you don't like Phish. I sincerely hope that you do find something that gives you as much joy as I continue to get from Phish.
Whatever your taste, this remains true: the music is sophisticated, well-written and widely varied. The musicians are talented and creative. The fans are engaged and devoted to the band and each other before, during, and after the show. And all involved are invested in each other's well-being, contagiously enthusiastic, and devoted to sharing Phish with anyone that will listen.
If the total body of work that is The Phish from Vermont doesn't lend itself to being easily evaluated, catagorized, and labeled by a music critic, then perhaps there's more to this art than a music critic can appreciate.
As a long-time fan, I leave you with only this: It's okay if you don't like Phish. I sincerely hope that you do find something that gives you as much joy as I continue to get from Phish.
19
Hard to convey the power of improvisation. I think that's the nut, the crux of the matter. Of course you need the 10,000 hour rule (all members so practiced and masters of not only their instrument but the interplay between one another...) + good song writing i.e...just some good tunes that catch enough people...and if you play long enough and develop the right chemistry, you get Phish...or the Grateful Dead. That improvisation piece is the magic, the magic nut. That's it. It's so hard, so elusive, deceptively difficult. But if you work hard enough, are smart enough, lucky enough, have good enough songs and grind long enough and get that right chemistry and keep taking chances, you get a group of people on instruments who can create magic, something that can't be pre planned or schemed out on a sheet of music before hand. On those rare moments it happens in the moment, you get pure magic, and when you understand that, you realize selling out msg for 13 nights makes perfect sense. Could have been a month. 50 years. It's magic. We have an endless curiosity and thirst for that next magic moment, something so desperately lacking in most day to day lives.
9
Ben Ratliff, its nice to see your byline back in the Times. The reporting on the city's music culture by you and Mr. Chinen is sorely missed. Not only are the city's jazz, improvised music and cabaret scenes vital to the heartbeat of NYC, they are a cultural force with impact around the world and I hope the Times would renew its commitment to chronicle its developments.
1
I frequently listen to Phish at reasonable volumes in my office at my professional job as a litigator. To this day when people ask me what I am listening to, I tell them Ernest Anastasio.
19
Erato and a few of her sister's were happy with the in house residency. when on the 3rd night the heaven's opened and Terpsichore and Polyhymnia danced for the ages. yes Muses were satiated. Humans, the Muses do not get that relief often. enjoy it cause when it is gone silence rules.
4
The type of person who goes to Phish shows is the Wall Street banker type, who does lots of drugs and simultaneously claims that Burning Man changed his life. I have many friends who like Phish and all can't wait to get high as a kite before the show as the music is that bad.
3
I heard Phish open for Santana in spring of 1992, at a small baseball stadium in Southern NH. Neither one was really famous (it was pre-Smooth for Santana, so he hadn't really come back full force from the 1980s music boom). It was a great show, lots of fun, and goofy. I'll never forget this moment: Santana sat in, or maybe Trey sat in with Santana's band. Trey took a super long solo with a billion notes and everyone was going nuts, then he finished, looked over at Santana, who played one note, held it for a few seconds, and then bent it into a wail as he also bent back on his knees and looked up into the night sky—and the place REALLY went nuts. Not that Santana topped Trey, but it was the perfect response to all those notes and just what everyone needed—a long sung tone on the guitar. Moments like that, seemingly improvised and full of feeling, are what get people out to live shows. I think Phish understands that people come to their show to be in the presence of something unique each night in a non-trivial way (and contribute, through audience energy). Good for them (and us).
4
Phish learned a lot during their time with Santana on that tour; he really got in their ear about "the Hose" specifically and listening to each other in general. Thanks Carlos!
2
Holman Stadium :-)
1
not bad phanner.
bit of a dose of phishyness to this
bit of a dose of phishyness to this
The problem with reviews of Phish by the chattering class of critics is that they were never "in the arena" in the first place. Trey got it right back in 1997/98 (Bittersweet Motel) when he said that Phish shows are not about missed changes, tepid lyrics or weedy singing - "it's all about energy and that show rocked." You are never going to surrender to the flow when you are caught up mid-show wondering whether Fluffhead went to Deutsche Bank or Goldman for his bills.
To me, a Phish show is all about connectivity. Connectivity within the band, connectivity from the band to the audience and connectivity within the audience to each other. Each show is a moment in time that, honestly, can never be replicated. In an era that is marked by individualism and on-demand everything, that a refreshing thought whether you appreciate the music or not.
To me, a Phish show is all about connectivity. Connectivity within the band, connectivity from the band to the audience and connectivity within the audience to each other. Each show is a moment in time that, honestly, can never be replicated. In an era that is marked by individualism and on-demand everything, that a refreshing thought whether you appreciate the music or not.
18
I still remember waking up at 4:30 in the morning, to the sounds of Phish wafting through the house, as my teenage stepson got the homework done he had been too tired to do the night before after crew practice. He's almost 37 now, and he and his younger brother have been to countless Phish concerts in various states over the years. I don't believe they've been to one in years, but just this morning our younger son (now 34 and a potter living in France) texted he was listening to Phish as he mixed glazes and waited for his gas kiln to complete a bisque firing. His text made me smile and remember those mornings groaning out "Phish, again!" as I pulled a pillow over my head and tried to go back to sleep. I am glad they have Phish, as I have The Pretenders.
6
How thoughtless to send someone who isn't a fan of the band to cover these shows. It's easy to hate Phish. Wouldn't the more thoughtful article be one written by someone with some insight into the Phish world? Why would you go to a Phish concert? Because they play great music. Sorry you missed that, guy.
8
I have to say, as someone who likes Phish, I appreciated the fact that they didn't send an unabashed phanboy. I love Jesse Jarnow's writing, and I knew that he'd be reviewing a show elsewhere, as he undoubtedly loves Phish. However, it's nice to have Ratliff's detached perspective. While I don't think this is Ben's best written review, you can tell he was wrestling with his preconceived notions and begrudgingly enjoyed the show.
5
Mr. Ratliff doesn't get Phish's humor or their music, but he does get paid to attend their shows and write reviews that that Phish fans do not care for. As I long time Phish fan dating back to 1988, I am amazed at how popular they have become, but also feel it is well-deserved, because it is no small miracle that the same four band members can continue to make incredible music and thrill audiences for this long. I wish they were still our little secret, but those days are long gone.
7
I went to 30 or so shows in the 90s as a college student and for a few years after graduation. I remember those shows as nights of joy and fun shared with thousands of fellow fans. Whether their music is sophisticated or simple or predictable or inane, who cares, really? For decades, concert after concert, the band has given millions of fans moments of bliss. Who among us can say the same?
16
I wonder which is more ponderous: a phish show or this article. Excruciating!
1
Funny how you have this article saying Phish is all about the spirit, and yet the article is a spirit-killing, patronizing ramble about a band whose music defies description. "Whomping energy of Ghost." Ugh.
And no, I'm not an offended Phish fan, I think they're great but one show every few years is good for me.
And no, I'm not an offended Phish fan, I think they're great but one show every few years is good for me.
1
Mr Ratliff's haughty and stilted review did not indicate if he had fun.
Can you still have fun?
I saw four of the BD shows. Each was different, each had something to offer if you were willing to listen. Like the Phish.net review said: "Unlike a Rangers or Knicks game, Phish won every night. We all won every night."
Amen brother.
Can you still have fun?
I saw four of the BD shows. Each was different, each had something to offer if you were willing to listen. Like the Phish.net review said: "Unlike a Rangers or Knicks game, Phish won every night. We all won every night."
Amen brother.
6
These four highly accomplished and amazingly talented musicians have been such a big part of my life for the last 25 years. From seeing them in small clubs one year to sold out at the Garden and on Letterman two years later. And it hasn't stopped since (hiatus and extended off-time excluded). I attended the last three nights and it was truly a privilege. Yes, these guys like to have fun, but make no mistake, when they are on that stage it is all business. There is no band more professional and audience-dedicated than Phish. Thank you Phish, just thank you.
15
Throughout my musical experience, I have never come across a music act that has been so overwhelmingly amplified in terms of ability and emotion such as Phish. I only saw them once, on Dec. 28, 1998 at MSG? The crowd was absolutely ecstatic, never saw anything like it, something resembling a cult. I didn't get it, though, and still don't, but it's a question of taste really, and nobody should be lambasted for what they like. My only reservation is that "jam bands" in the past, most of whom are direct influences on Phish, knew when to hang it on the wall. Music expression and its limitless boundaries can be stretched far, but not as far as Phish is, and I'll be more specific. Good jams always start with a good song, a strong theme, tested material. From the article I deduce that Phish are extending their musical prowess only. Time for them to hang on the wall as well.
"From the article I deduce that Phish are extending their musical prowess only. Time for them to hang on the wall as well."
Nope.
Phish is arguably a better experience now than in 1998. Regardless, if the devoted can reasonably argue about whether Magnaball (2015) was better than Clifford Ball (1996) musically and as an experience on the whole, a gap of 20 years between the 2 festivals, then you may deduce rather that Phish is a dynamic force that consciously pushes to create and invent and thrill. Check it out. Or don't. Cheers!
Nope.
Phish is arguably a better experience now than in 1998. Regardless, if the devoted can reasonably argue about whether Magnaball (2015) was better than Clifford Ball (1996) musically and as an experience on the whole, a gap of 20 years between the 2 festivals, then you may deduce rather that Phish is a dynamic force that consciously pushes to create and invent and thrill. Check it out. Or don't. Cheers!
5
Given the complexity, uncertainty and contant stressses we endure as adults living in today's chaotic world I would like to express my profound gratitude to this band.
It is difficult to imagine four human beings (and their support crew) that have provided sooo much happiness, diversion and sense of community to so many people over the last 35 years.
THANK YOU PHISH!!
It is difficult to imagine four human beings (and their support crew) that have provided sooo much happiness, diversion and sense of community to so many people over the last 35 years.
THANK YOU PHISH!!
15
The 13 day residency may have been great for Phish and it's fans but it was a disservice to the NY Liberty team and its fans. It caused the team to have the longest road trip in WNBA history. The Liberty played 5 games on the road and lost 3. This is a a crucial point in the season when teams are jockeying for playoff berths. MSG's commitment to the team has always been questionable but forcing the team on the road for 16 days to accommodate the Phish "residency" demonstrates that the team's success is not even a consideration for MSG management.
1
The Knicks used to play in an armory when RIngling Brothers was in town.
Don't take it personally - all about the Benjamins.
Don't take it personally - all about the Benjamins.
Phish sold 20,789 tickets 13 nights out of 17 (the other 4 were dark). The Liberty sold an average of about 9,000 in 2015, with a high of 18,000 and a total for the SEASON of 155,000. So Phish sold nearly 2x as many tickets in their run as the Liberty does in a whole season. And Phish has a relationship with the venue that dates back to 1994, several years before the Liberty even existed. I'm sorry the team isn't doing well, but don't blame the band or the venue.
4
Saw them about ten years ago at MSG and on Wednesday the 4th. I go to a lot of different live shows and took my daughter (22) who is an aspiring musician-actress. She was a little familiar with them. I noticed the crowd much more in control and less drugged out than ten years ago. They were enjoying themselves and the vibe was great. That is why I took my daughter so she could see a devoted crowd fully engaged with a band that delivers for their fans.
I think in the end when I'm old and in the way she will understand why I took her to all these different shows of many different genres so as to tell her she can do this!
I think in the end when I'm old and in the way she will understand why I took her to all these different shows of many different genres so as to tell her she can do this!
10
I'm so grateful that they've played a couple shows in recent years here in San Diego. They have entertained me for decades now and I'm so pleased that they're still going strong. It's fun to watch them shine on stage.
7
I respectfully disagree with Mr Ratcliff. I am a 63 year old professional who has followed them for 25 years.
Firstly, they are all excellent musicians. That bears mention. Secondly, their songs can be quite complex - Mr Ratcliff should listen again to "Sloth", with its many key and time changes.. Petrichor is another very complex song.
Some of their lyrics are inane, but many are quite beautiful. At the Saturday show, the encore "Joy" is about the loss of his sister, and what it means moving on to Mr Anastasio and his family. It is a beautiful song about loss and love, without ever stating those emotions specifically. "Silent in the Morning" is a love song, although the word "Love " is never mentioned. To me, this form of writing is much more interesting then a song "I love you", or "I miss you", which many other critically acclaimed musicians will perform.
Overall, due to their playful stage demeanor (they don't stare at their shoelaces), the easy accessability of some of their songs, their ability to write a very catchy melody (listen to the end of "Lizards") the manner in which they move very fluidly between multiple styles - country, barbershop, rock, metal, and all their jamming, they are not taken seriously by some critics.
Finally - about those jams - yes the peak is often predictable, but what's wrong with that in our current world, where 20,000 people can experience joy simultaneously?
Firstly, they are all excellent musicians. That bears mention. Secondly, their songs can be quite complex - Mr Ratcliff should listen again to "Sloth", with its many key and time changes.. Petrichor is another very complex song.
Some of their lyrics are inane, but many are quite beautiful. At the Saturday show, the encore "Joy" is about the loss of his sister, and what it means moving on to Mr Anastasio and his family. It is a beautiful song about loss and love, without ever stating those emotions specifically. "Silent in the Morning" is a love song, although the word "Love " is never mentioned. To me, this form of writing is much more interesting then a song "I love you", or "I miss you", which many other critically acclaimed musicians will perform.
Overall, due to their playful stage demeanor (they don't stare at their shoelaces), the easy accessability of some of their songs, their ability to write a very catchy melody (listen to the end of "Lizards") the manner in which they move very fluidly between multiple styles - country, barbershop, rock, metal, and all their jamming, they are not taken seriously by some critics.
Finally - about those jams - yes the peak is often predictable, but what's wrong with that in our current world, where 20,000 people can experience joy simultaneously?
38
I've found that many of the Phish 'phans' are those who were too young to go to a Dead show, (or not even born before Jerry died). This is their version of being Deadheads. Let the twirlers twirl and players play, it's all good, enjoy!
Being young is incredibly fun, celebrate that great energy while it lasts!
Being young is incredibly fun, celebrate that great energy while it lasts!
12
To me Phish is Zappa-style all-brain no rock & roll
2
Phish are simultaneously the best jam band on the planet AND a long running comedy troupe. What I love about the band is its pure joy at playing before an audience whilst not taking any of it too seriously. Perhaps this is precisely what many critics dislike.
That's okay. You either get it or you don't. Whatever. But I've always why so many people--especially those who've never heard a single note--get so butthurt at the mere mention of Phish.
That's okay. You either get it or you don't. Whatever. But I've always why so many people--especially those who've never heard a single note--get so butthurt at the mere mention of Phish.
16
Phish is a great group because of its leader, Ernest "Trey" Anastasio. Its all about the music/improvisation/neuvo-jazz-thing for me. They keep doing new things, and the residency was a great idea. Their jams and Trey's playing style have certainly changed over the years. My wife and I have been to about 25 shows, and I have heard as much as humanly possible as almost all live shows are recorded. We really don't care for the dirty hippie following, and we are both 30 something professionals. That said, we enjoy a crowd that likes to have fun, even though they generally do not like to work or bathe. I don't expect the masses to love Phish, because our society values image over everything, and prefers 2.75 minutes of catchy resolved brain candy packed and sold as music.
4
"Dirty hippie," "...generally do not like to work or bathe." You have missed the point of the entire Phish experience--everyone is accepting and friendly to everyone else, whether 18 or 65. The superficiality is thrown away, and it's the closest I've been to the "summer of love" in 40 years. Many of those dirty hippies of whom you speak are lawyers, teachers, bartenders, chefs, and whatever, becoming one with the vibe of the music and experience. It's too bad you let your judgment of others cloud the moment.
2
Loved them in the 90s and love them still. But why do they continue to play big shows at Madison Square Garden? Someone recently said to me, jokingly, " no group is more discriminated against in NYC than hippies." The City certainly isn't as fan-friendly as, say, Albany or Burlington. Also, it's a very expensive place to visit and doesn't need the revenue of Phish fans. Is there something about the Garden that keeps them coming back?
1
Yes. it's NYC. Period
6
"There is definitely an energy, definitely a sound at the Garden," - Trey Anastasio
1
Phish is a tremendous group. What they did at the Garden playing 13 nights with no repeats is nothing short of amazing. They are one of the premier live concerts today. Drake and Radiohead are two other performers who also push boundaries and give an amazing live performance.
8
Wouldn't. Didn't. Won't. I appreciate what Phish does for its fans, and as a Deadhead who saw his first of 150 Grateful Dead (and many others since Garcia's death in 1995), I get the Phish-heads' love of the band.
Simply put, Phish music doesn't reach me or touch me in any way, lyrically or musically.
Simply put, Phish music doesn't reach me or touch me in any way, lyrically or musically.
3
Meow
5
Sorry, Steven, but you didn't see any Grateful Dead shows after Jerry's death. Further, Phil and Friends, The Dead, Dead & Co. and many other "fission products" maybe, but those (IMO) tribute bands were not the Grateful Dead even though they had some of the same personnel (nor were any billed as "Grateful Dead").
8
There's no better cliche than the old Deadhead who feels the need to tell us why Phish is not as good as The Grateful Dead.
It's okay that you don't like Phish, but the reality is that many, many of us like both bands, and you can rest assured we do so without trampling on the memory of Saint Jerry.
It's okay that you don't like Phish, but the reality is that many, many of us like both bands, and you can rest assured we do so without trampling on the memory of Saint Jerry.
9
I think the bottom line is "Go see live music!!"
17
If you're brain damaged enough to love the grateful dead you'll love Phish.
3
Curious- who does Paulie, intact brain and all, like musically?
"Why Would You Go to a Phish Concert, Let Alone 13?"
Because you live an empty and totally wasted life, in all meanings of the term.
Because you live an empty and totally wasted life, in all meanings of the term.
1
Ouch. I'm a practicing physician, father of two, and enjoy Phish. I guess my choice of bands makes me a deadbeat though!
18
Really? I have a graduate degree, a professional job, I own a home, I support my family, I pay my taxes, I volunteer in my community...and I enjoy going to see Phish shows with my friends. Sorry not sorry if that seems like an empty and wasted life to you!
3
Yes, Glenn with 2 Ns. You've nailed it. With that clarity of mind, no need for you to investigate any further. Your capacity for broad stroke generalities and passing judgements on that which you know not tells me that you know that you're right and that's what matters. Best of luck to you!
1
Best band in rock in roll. No live act comes close. And hey, you don't like them? Then please stay away. Tickets are hard enough to get as is. Even for 13 shows over two weeks!
25
One of the more interesting reviews of a Phish show(s) I've ever read. Most critics will trash the band but this one seems intrigued by what he experienced.
It also doesn't hurt that the band is playing at an extraordinarily high level right now. Like a perfectly aged wine from a blockbuster vintage, they seemed to have found that elusive balance between youth / enthusiasm and age / experience.
It also doesn't hurt that the band is playing at an extraordinarily high level right now. Like a perfectly aged wine from a blockbuster vintage, they seemed to have found that elusive balance between youth / enthusiasm and age / experience.
27
I'd like to think they are at their peak, but I've been disappointed with the diminishing genius moments in the last few years.
Rock n roll residencies began more than 50 years ago at Cafe Au Go Go on Bleecker Street. Cream, Richie Havens, The Blues Project, The Grateful Dead and Butterfield Blues Band were among those who had runs of a week or more. Hearing it with 19,000 people might be good; to be one of about 350 was quite sensational and I've wished I'd seen them all. But, the couple or three that I did were spectacular.
6
Saturday was also my first Phish show. I have no interest in their style of music, and did not know any of the songs, besides the covers. That said, watching the live show, I "got it" and can see why they have such a devoted following. The show was joyful, entertaining, fun, and, of course, there is a great sense of community among the audience. The light show was also noteworthy. Jam bands are still not my favorite, but I have a new appreciation for Phish and can understand why their fans are so enthusiastic!
50
You took the words right out of my mouth. Saw my first show during the Bakers Dozen series and enjoyed every second of it and every part of what you described as the experience was exactly right. And those lights! Truly a fifth band member as my friend said.
2
I love the real Grateful Dead (not the latest incarnation) and several other jam bands, but I just can't get into Phish even though I've been to several shows and went to school in Burlington, VT. I was dragged to one of the MSG shows two weeks ago but stayed sober and I was bored to tears. I'm not sure if it's possible to enjoy a Phish show without at least marijuana - probably half of the audience was on molly. It's basically the same noodling tunes for four hours.
When Sarah Silverman had her own show on Comedy Central she had an episode about trying to endure a Phish-type concert sober. It wasn't possible, but it made for great comedy.
When Sarah Silverman had her own show on Comedy Central she had an episode about trying to endure a Phish-type concert sober. It wasn't possible, but it made for great comedy.
16
I think these guys are super talented musicians, but their songs are kind of silly and the scene seems so manufactured.
3
I can assure you that if you're a person that does love this band and their music you can have as wonderful an experience at a show sober as you can in any other state. I'm one of those people who lost count somewhere around 100 shows, and while many of those were indeed chemically enhanced, I've had no more than a beer or three at perhaps a quarter of them. One of those, in 2012 at Bader Field in Atlantic City, I count amongst the finest I've seen. I more than understand people having different tastes in music. But to say that someone else could only enjoy something they love because they're stoned is awfully presumptuous at best.
16
That episode was written in part by noted Phish fanatic Harris Wittels (RIP)
5
"Those who were seen dancing were thought to be insane by those who could not hear the music” ~Fredrich Nietzsche
25
cant think of another band that can/would play 13 shows with no repeats while leaving fans thirsting for more yet satisfyingly content at the same time. hats off, helluva run!
26
I went to about 25 shows in the 90's (and a half dozen since), and I'm still a Phan. I found this piece a decent "outsider's perspective" on what is largely an insider experience. Like writing about religion, being an observer is not the same as being a participant, but I feel like this piece is a fair observation.
12
Since his name was referenced in passing, the review reminds me of a quote attributed to Thelonius Monk: "Talking about Music is like Dancing about Architecture"
15
Didn't this just add up to "You had to be there."?
11
Artboy - kinda agree, until the author admits gets at the end that he doesn't really care for Phish's songs. That made it interesting to me, as someone else who thinks the tunes are lackluster, the lyrics silly/pointless but who still enjoys the group mind on display. How can that be?
3
"Trying to write about about music is like trying to dance about architecture " , yeah you have to witness live music, especially a phish show. It's hard to capture the live phish experience with words
2
That ("You had to be there") can be said of all great shows, and perhaps of life itself...