Last month I made one of my frequent pilgrimages to Alpine Valley in Wisconsin to once again see my boys Phish, and as usual, they did not disappoint. For those who have never been, I recommend checking out one of the best jam bands (and in my opinion bands) of all time. With their vast catalog of songs (primarily originals, but also some stellar covers – they played Led Zeppelin’s “No Quarter” the second night), inspired improvisation, dazzling lights, and penchant for never playing the same set twice, a Phish show truly is a transcendent experience. This was over my 40th time seeing them (I’ve lost count), and even after two hiatuses and around twenty-five years of touring, the boys are as dialed in as ever on account of a less grueling tour schedule and more time between shows. All four band members (Page McConnell, Trey Anastasio, Jon Fishman, and Mike Gordon) are amazing musicians and when they are all locked in to each other and the groove, it is absolutely mesmerizing. And there is no better outdoor venue than Alpine Valley, with its breathtaking views from the top of the monster hill and excellent acoustics, I cherish and appreciate every journey to this sacred shrine. Below are two of my favorite Phish tunes that they played during the weekend, “Harry Hood” (an Alpine staple they played the first night) and “Maze” (which they shredded on the second night).
