, attached to 2014-07-05

Review by kent241

kent241 I am already seeing some uncharitable reviews circulating on the Facebook and assorted Internet(s), so I hopefully the following can provide both a critical but overall positive perspective on what was a solid 3.0.

The energy was a bit down, but in the reciprocal relationship between band and fans - this was day 3 (or 4) for many of what has been the best 3.0 tour opening since Bethel (?) - I know my crew and I were not 100% together Saturday. Also, lets acknowledge that Trey was a tad sloppy on the Divided Sky (and other assorted notes throughout the show).

However, to claim that SPAC night 3 was "less" or the "worst" show of the three night run is doing a severe disservice to what is another victory lap for the 30th anniversary year of our favorite band.

Crowd Control is a great (pop) song, but I think serves as a terrible opener. I always wonder whether Phish play this when they hear of some horror story in the lot or the venue tells them of crowd unruliness...

After that, the first set is solid (even with a surprise first set Wading, which I think I prefer in its new slot rather than in the second set). First set is littered with highlights including My Friend, Fishman's outing on the Marimba Lumina in Scent, always welcomed Undermind tracks, and a crunchy Wombat (this is the new Tube). Wombat is purified Phish crack. Great stuff. Furthermore, after 31 shows, we got out first I Didn't Know.

For those seeking problems in the second set, I think you might be hard pressed. High energy throughout almost the whole second half. Carini took no prisoners and dissolved into a beautiful jam that led into a great version of Waves. Wingsuit was perfectly placed IMO, soaring into its Pink Floyd-esque climax.

Last night's clear highlight, I think, was Piper. At roughly 14 minutes, this Piper is one of the best I have heard live. Like many points throughout the SPAC '14 run I kept saying to myself "This is PHISH" and is one of the stand-out moments of the weekend.

We know where Fluffhead is going, but I can't complain about the placement (and Fluff is so much fun!) Even Heavy Things works as Page does a unique solo at the halfway mark. Finally, YEM deviates from the standard formula to round out an excellent 2nd set of Phish. I can't say too much about a Suzy encore.

If this was a stand-alone show, there would be no complaints. But perhaps in comparison to the Gin > Limb, Fuego > DWD > Twist > Light of the previous two nights, maybe last night can't compare? I sincerely doubt that.

A new phase of 3.0 has begun. The "no covers" rule should not be taken lightly. I think this is a positive step for the band, as they now have to push the envelope of there own material. I hope the rest of summer tour is as good as these three SPAC shows. See you in Charlotte > MPP!


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