10-7-00 -- Shoreline Amphitheatre, Mountain View, California
review submisions to me, dan schar at [email protected]
or [email protected]
Date: Sat, 3 Apr 2004 19:39:09 -0800 (PST)
From: GD Robinson
Subject: Phish Review for 10/7/00
Listening to this again today, 3 years later ... this was it.
Gaddamn it was so hot.
My 30th show, seeing em since '94. 8th row left-center.
They came out and did what we all wanted but didn't realize - play
THE SHIT out of their all time best ones. Amidst all the speculation
and hype, we forgot this is what we really wanted - a straight up
Phish show, down to business, no frills, no guests, just kick ass
Phish.
Alternately sad and bittersweet at times (Velvet Sea), to a 20,000
person party (2001, Meatstick), and just plain blowing the roof at
others (Bowie), the entire venue was electric, seething with emotion.
Everyone trying to grasp what they were witnessing. What a special
moment, leaving us with such a gift.
Cherish it! Remember how special this is. Nothing compares, nothing
compares.
-Greg Robinson
[email protected]
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000 12:04:32 -0700
From: Andrew Tritz [email protected]
Subject: Fw: My 10/7/00 Phish review (long)
Preface: This was my 10th phish show, and I first listened to phish in the
7th grade. It was filler on a dead tape and it was Mikes Groove. Even if I
complain about a show, I always have a great time (see Irvine last year :)
Well getting to this show was stressful enough. My friend who I was staying
with Oakland got stuck in traffic coming home and did not get their till
around 5:30, then she needed to get ready so we did not leave till a little
after 6. To make matters worse, I left my sat night ticket in my friends
van and was supposed to meet him at will call around 6. Well to make a long
story short, we got stuck in traffic and did not make it there till 7:10. I
went straight to will call, no friend. At this point I started panicking
but within a few minutes I had a phat reserved seat ticket in my hands. I
met back up with my friends who drove me and we went into the show. On to
the
music...
First Tube: What a way to open to the show. This version (like most I've
heard) just smoked start to finish. This version also seemed to be extended
longer than most I have heard. The band nailed this one on all cylinders.
This was the perfect opener IMO and just as effective as the Carini and
Chalkdust from the two previous nights.
Mikes Groove: YESSSSS. This was my second mikes ever, and my first mikes
groove proper ever. I called this with the H20 before the show and this
version did not disappoint. Though not as long as other versions I've heard
on tape (the mikes is quite standard, meaning AWESOME :). What really stood
out for me in the groove was the Hydrogen. I've since listened to on mp3
(thanks nugs.net!) and its just stunningly beautiful (except for one trey
glitch--not a big deal). Maybe most Hydrogens are this good, but I was
really impressed and almost brought a tear to my that's for sure. Weekapaug
turned out to be a dance fest for me. Though this version was not quite as
hair raising as my first weeka from Halloween Vegas, I enjoyed it
nonetheless. Only 4 songs into the set, and I really did not care what they
would play after this point.
Fee: Man o` man I thought, this set just keeps getting better. Fee was a
total treat and the jam at the end was quite nice. The jam just built a
little, then slowly faded away--really pretty stuff. I was getting really
stoked at this point. Also this got me pumped because its a favorite of my
friend Iain who was at the show.
Bathtub Gin: Another song for Iain. 2 of his favorite Phish songs played
back to back. This is also another favorite of mine as well. This version
was sick, and easily one of the most melodic and beautiful moments these
ears have heard at a phish show. Trey was very strong throughout this
version. His playing blew my mind near the end. Actually the whole band
was on during this gin and this whole set. For me its really hard to
pinpoint who played the best at a particular moment, because it seemed phish
was playing as one. But Treys guitar seems to jump out at me :)
Glide: Played standard, but what a sick song to play. First Glide, and put
Glide: Played standard, but what a sick song to play. First Glide, and put
a huge grin on this newbies face.
My Soul: I let out a little groan when this started, but I was proven
wrong. This shows it is not necessarily what phish plays but how they play
it that makes it special. They played this like the best blues bar band
could :) This was very tight and a rocking way to send us to set break.
After the set one I was totally stoked. Overall this set was VERY tight and
well played. The jams were very well jammed and felt improvised, and seemed
to lack the trey is masturbating on his guitar that I noticed at my 99
shows. Another thing about this set, was the balance. Jam songs were mixed
well with non jam songs, and no where in this set was there a slump. Easily
one of the best first sets I've seen phish play.
Twist: Ok, so I wasn't that thrilled to hear them open with it. Well, it
was a decent version, and hit a nice jam. This song, is still not hitting
the jams and level of improvisation that I'd like it reach. With that said,
I still enjoy this song (as I do most phish songs). Had a nice jam that
seemed to wind down into a funky space....
2001: Even though this was played at Chula Vista, I was still excited to
hear it. This is one of those pieces I never really get tired of. When
fishman kicked out the beat I started jumping up and down and screaming.
This version kick the Chula vista version on the ass into the thrash can.
Pretty early into to trey went to his keyboard and noodled a bit. Nothing
to spectacular in the opening minutes, but the combination of the lights,
crowd, and peak at the end of this song just seemed so huge. In some ways
it was a moment of transcendence--everyone around me was just dancing hard
and seemed so excited, as was I. Too me, this was the proper opening of the
second set, and after this song, there was not a dull moment until after
everyone left the venue.
Tweezer: Ahhhhhh tweezer. Another favorite or mine (and just about most
people I know too :) After the lyrics, this jam found a sick little groove,
that all the members seemed to explore with abandon. Page really stood out
later in the groove, adding some nice fills on the piano, even leading the
jam for a while. This version also featured some eerie sound effects and
like some of the other jams of the evening, it just melted into nothing.
Very, very satisfy tweezer.
Velveeta: After that monster tweezer I really didn't mind hearing this.
Also it was played magnificently taboot! This song can just kill a second
set (see Irvine last year), but this version was a perfect lullaby and fit
the somber mood of the occasion. Damn fine singing from Mike and the
harmonies are just so sweet. Treys solo at the end like the Hydrogen nearly
had me in tears. Soulful and melodic--finally a version that gives justice
to this usually cheesy sounding composition.
Meatstick: I've loved this song since I first heard it at Chula Vista last
year. This version seems pretty identical to most others meatsticks, except
for the cool Japanese lyrics. This makes the song like 10X cooler. Also
Trey and Mike were totally N'sync on the meatstick dance :) Funny thing
about this song, this older lady sitting next to me said "is this fire on
the mountain????" No real jam or anything else special to note about this
version, but I danced my ass off and attempted to meatstick.
David Bowie: I was really surprised when this started up, considering they
played 2 nights earlier in Irvine. This version was very tight, not as
drawn out as the Irvine version, but a nice contrast. Basically this
version is note perfect. No wasted moments and nothing really needs to be
added. This Bowie was another highlight of the set.
Tweezer Reprise: Tight as always, kept me dancing. nuff said. (I love
this song!)
YEM: I called this as the encore, and it was my first YEM ever. Even
though this may be phishs most commonly played song, it has always alluded
me. Well I finally got it. I guess this was just an average version, but I
was so pumped to hear it. The tramps were brought out and I was impressed
how N'sync Trey and Mike were again. Listening to the mp3s of it, nothing
that special in the jam section. Just your average YEM, but dammit it was
my first. The vocal jam is what really stood out imo. Very spooky sound
and the lights were just amazing. Very uplifting and scary all at the same
time. Well maybe not scary, but it seemed like the band was trying to tell
us something.
Final thoughts: After the lights went up, everybody just stayed where they
were and gave a big standing ovation. It was really moving thing to see and
hear. Also I must give props to Kudora. His lighting is just amazing, and
it seemed to be the most consistent thing during all 4 California shows :)
Even though none of the rumors about the third set or special guests turned
out to be true, I had a blast and will rank this easily in my top 3 shows
that I've been to or listened to. If you just judge this show on the
setlist (which is hot), you are selling yourself and the band short. Listen
to the tapes and see for yourself, and the energy of the shows translates to
tapes :) Given the lack of harpua or any other super special song, makes
this show stronger because it has to rely strictly on its musical merits and
not just the fact that a rare song was played. Good job boys, you sent
yourself off to break in high style and I'm glad I was apart of it.
--
============================================================
Then she opened up a book of poems
And handed it to me
Written by an Italian poet
From the thirteenth century.
And every one of them words rang true
And glowed like burnin' coal
Pourin' off of every page
Like it was written in my soul from me to you
--Bob Dylan
CDR list: Http://www.geocities.com/bisco_kid
============================================================
Date: Wed, 6 Dec 2000 16:48:53 -0800 (PST)
From: Andrew S. Justice [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Thoughts on 10-07-00
Almost exactly two months after this show, I've finally got my hands on a
copy and have been enjoying it all day. First impressions were raw back
in October, but now that there's been some time and I am listening with
somewhat fresh ears, I just wanted to throw out a few things.
First Tube, although a semi-predictable show opener, had some amazing
energy. The build-up towards the end of the piece was incredible, it
really felt like the band was fully reciprocating the crowd's vibe and
intensifying it tenfold. The entire Mike's Groove that follows had a
sense of immediacy and weight to it - the jamming in Mike's was very
present, never over the top, and the mood was extremely well-focused.
Hydrogen at a slightly relaxed tempo was beautiful. Weekapaug, although
not absolutely disgusting (it was, after all, only 4 songs into the show),
had a very solid feel to it. All in all, a great rocking Groove.
Fee was a definite breath for everyone with another great post-jam.
Although it slid right by, 16 minutes of Bathtub Gin was not only
welcome, but amazed me by never pushing the envelope for the entire time,
right up to the very succinct and concise ending. The control that the
band exuded through this song (and indeed the entire weekend, from time to
time) was mind-blowingly impressive. As they evolve and mature as
musicians and artists, they seem to be really working on the jams as a
whole rather than always simply living in the sickeningly blissful moment.
Did anybody at the show recognize Glide? It was quiet, yet I was going
nuts. Trey loves to play My Soul, and I love how much he enjoys it.
---
Twist, again, slips right by until you notice it was 12 minutes long.
This subtle, precise jamming is really cool. Anybody who bags on Trey's
keyboard playing should hear this 2001 and listen how he's using it to
fill in the rhythmic holes, at the same time giving those sections an
dually-faceted mood of dark and light colors. Also, check out Fish living
right on the front edge of the beat but not rushing...wow.
Tweezer's jam goes somewhere I have never heard them go, and it's got so
much purpose to it, you can't let it get by. Once Trey goes to the keys
again, Mike takes the cue and feeds his bass through an effect I've heard
him use a couple of times, a synth drop that goes down two octaves. After
an involved 5-7 minutes, it slowly filters into an ambient void. Meatstick
cured the sickness nicely...Japanese lyrics are great. Wading created a
"what are they gearing up for?" mood in the crowd, and Bowie answered that
question nicely, serving up (again) some purposeful, well-structured
jamming. Also some nice start/stopping in the coda, with the always-fun
Tweeprise to close the set.
The YEM encore was special, and no one can deny that. The vocal jam, for
me, resembled a Phishy "amen" to 17 years of touring, and it left me
feeling very fulfilled. Shoreline was a great weekend, and this show was
hands-down the greatest I've ever seen.
Andrew S. Justice
Graduate Student
University of Oregon
"Your eyes may feel heavy, your nose light."
- Mike Gordon
Date: Tue, 10 Oct 2000 12:08:37 EDT
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Shoreline 10/7/00 - review
Phish - Saturday, October 7, 2000
Shoreline Ampthitheatre
Mountain View, CA
One word to sum up this show is Melancholy! I am not going to give
a song by song account since I am basically going off memory here and
didn't take any show notes, but the whole show just seemed pensive...
pensive - suggesting or expressing deep, often melancholy thoughtfulness
(or song renditions), may be the better description than melancholy.
All the way down to the feeling in the crowd.
The band was doing their thing, the thing they know what to do best.
We received Mike's Groove, Bathtub Gin, ASZ, David Bowie and YEM all
in the same show, but they were all typical versions. The band seemed
to be reflecting on what they do/did best, and this "last time" before
the hiatus was a rendering of the last 17 years in a small capsule.
Nothing outstanding or extraordinary in this show, except for maybe
the Tweezer which was probably the most creative of the night and had
the band escape out of their contemplative shell for a second into the
true improvisational exploratory world. But the rest was a standard
feed of the Phish style we have grown to love over the years. Basically
as is often the case in the countless reviews we read and write, an
average Phish show is still an amazing one or to that effect.
Maybe they just couldn't bring the energy level back from the night
before (as is sometimes the case, see 11/28/99 which is a dud as
compared to monster 11/27/99 the night before), or they just were
partying all night with Bobby? ;-) Fish did have pure bags under his eyes
and looked very tired (thanks again shoreline camera crew for those
pictures). Maybe it was the tone that "Last Time" set which as a
Deadhead isn't really a welcomed song. Or maybe it was just the crowd
patiently sitting there dancing away as they usually do but really
waiting for the GRAND FINALE that never came, or
maybe it was just me, but the evening was very relaxed and calm to say
the least. The musical highlights came in the second set with a sweet
Twist flawlessly leaning into ASZ with amazing Chris K. lights and then
Tweezer with a real good jam improv segment. Bowie also gave the crowd
some of the nice tension and release flavor of the last 17 years.
Other than that nothing to out there. The Mike's Groove in the first
set wasn't exactly cookie cutter, but it came close. And the YEM encore
was another standard rendition, which began to inspire after the tramp
segment but really fell back to average with the strangest vocal jam ever,
there was no jam in the vocal jam, the band just hummed themselves off
the stage. No good-byes, no thank yous, no nothing, just a hum???!?!?!?!
The crowd patiently stood around a little confused, a little amazed,
waiting for a third set or for a long thirdset-like encore since it was
still early in the evening (much earlier than the night before) but the
house lights came on, the back stage curtain lifted, the crew came out
to break the set down, "Let It Be" was played, and the crowd realized it
was over at which point the crowd with a huge round of applause gave the
band (and crew) what they hoped going into the concert they would actually
receive from them. On this night the crowd, the PHANS thanked the band for
the
last 17 years!!!!!! I guess in Vegas and definitely on Friday night at
Shoreline
the band did their part! Tonight they just played for what could be the last
time.
Thanks Phish for it all!!!!!
See ya in a year ;-)
(that's my over/under on the hiatus, will the
next show be by Oct. 7, 2001, place your bets, the odds are even
as I see them with a slight favorite being under).
Peace,
Kaz
[email protected]
Date: Wed, 11 Oct 2000 23:26:42 GMT
From: Ryan Vandenbroeck
To: [email protected]
Subject: 10-7-00 show review
Hey all. Here are some quick thoughts on the Shoreline 10-07-00 show.
My info: I saw my first show in '96 but this is only my 9th show overall (I
usually just see bay area shows). Nonetheless, I have a pretty lengthy
collection of tapes and am very familiar with the band and their live sound.
My seats were pretty good for this one- about halfway up the pavilion
toward stage right (Page's side- the side I like!).
SET I:
FIRST TUBE: I guess I expected this one. I really dig this song though I've
heard a lot of it lately. It was a good opener and pretty high energy.
MIKE'S SONG: Wow, a Mike's song and we're only two songs into the first set!
The jam was good but I don't remember it being spectacular, as far as
Mike's Songs are concerned.
I AM HYDROGEN: Aaaaargh! I don't get to see that many shows, but this is my
fourth Mike's Groove and my fourth standard Mike's>Hydrogen>Groove. I tried
to make the most of it anyway.
WEEKAPAUG GROOVE: A decent Weekapaug. I think it was too early in the show
for the band to get really crazy. I don't remember anything spectacular
about the jam- it seemed fairly standard but I dug it.
FEE: This was way out of left field. I dug hearing it simply because it's a
rare one and I've never heard it live. I didn't think it would be much of a
big deal though as there's usually no jam associated with Fee. However,
after the last chorus, the band hit a groove and jammed on that in a really
ambient style for a few minutes: a very interesting, tight jam. The volume
died down and Trey began playing the opening notes to...
BATHTUB GIN: I heard this one at my first Phish show and it has eluded me
since. I've been listening to the Hampton '98 version a lot lately and was
hoping they'd hit a cool groove like they do in that version. Phish
definitely hit a groove in this one and it didn't disappoint.
GLIDE: Only my 9th show, but my second Glide- what are the chances of that?
This version was played very tight (unlike lots of versions I've heard of
this complex song). It seemed very appropriate for the last show before the
hiatus and was, thus, well received by the audience.
MY SOUL: I didn't expect this one to be played, much less be the set closer.
However, after Trey tore up his solo I knew they had to close with it. My
Soul isn't my favorite song, but, as I mentioned, Trey took the solo to some
crazy places and absolutely took control of the theatre. Phish, doing what
they do best, took a ho-hum song and made it absolutely rage.
SET I THOUGHTS: Like last night, everything was played very tight. Some
great, high energy moments with the jams in First Tube, Mike's, Weekapaug,
and My Soul. Hydrogen was the mellow, relaxing tune. Fee and Glide made
for lots of smiles in the crowd and Gin hit a good groove. Not the best set
in the world but certainly not a downer.
SET II:
TWIST: Hmmm... same sort of feeling as the second set opener yesterday
(Heavy Things). I like this song but wasn't too thrilled about it being the
second set opener- I think it's more of a first set song. Nonetheless, it
still grooved.
ALSO SPRACH ZARATHUSTRA: Awesome. Played very tight with no flubs by anyone
in the band. There was nothing very out-of-the-ordinary but, as always,
this song rocked. Excellent work by Kuroda on the lights. One of the
highlights of the set.
TWEEZER: A good Tweezer. The composed section was nice and funky and the
improv was nothing totally spectacular but still pretty fun.
WADING IN A VELVET SEA: Not my favorite song in the Phish repertoire but a
good one to sit back and relax to.
MEATSTICK: My first time hearing this one live and it was very fun. The
Japanese part of the song was great- really funny.
DAVID BOWIE: Probably the highlight of the set. I didn't expect to get this
one as it had just been played at Irvine but it was sure a pleasant
surprise. I'm not sure if this one was better than the one they played at
Shoreline last year, but it was still Bowie and they still absolutely tore
it up. In the jam, the band hit some excellent peaks and valleys and nailed
some gnarly changes. This and Antelope were probably the best jams of the
weekend.
TWEEZER REPRISE: Nothing out of the ordinary but I still loved hearing this
one.
SECOND SET THOUGHTS: I was hoping for something spectacular like Harpua or
Destiny Unbound but it was still a pretty good set. Everything they played,
however, was pretty standard, with the exception of the jams in Tweezer and
Bowie.
ENCORE:
YOU ENJOY MYSELF: Again, I was hoping for Harpua or Destiny but YEM was
certainly acceptable! The composed section was played flawlessly and very
tight- very high energy. The jam was one of the more high-energy YEM jams
in recent years- Page was ripping it up while Trey and Mike were on the
trampolines. Trey took a nice solo too. After the standard Page solo, Trey
solo, the band jammed on a groove for a while then Mike took a brief bass
solo. This wasn't a typical bass solo, either. The rest of the band
dropped out and let him play alone for a few measures. The band came back
in and let Fishman do the same thing. I thought this was very strange
because I've always heard that Fishman never takes drum solos. Well, he
took a brief drum solo this time and it was a good one. The vocal jam was
simple but interesting- it wasn't very rhythmic or busy at all. The band
pretty much would just hum a note for a while then pause and hum another
note. Nice job on the lights during the vocal jam.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: I was disappointed that we didn't get a "show for the
ages" or whatever but they played a lot of favorites that are rarely seen
all in the same show (Mike's, Gin, Tweezer, Bowie, YEM). After the show was
over and Let It Be played over the PA, everyone gave the crew (and the band
that had since left the stage) a well-deserved standing ovation. It was
quite a moment.
Date: Sun, 15 Oct 2000 03:24:24 -0500 (CDT)
From: Rob Walsh [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: 10-07 review
I need to throw in my "two cents," however much I hate that expression.
I was not even -at- the show. People who gave the reviews (some of them
anyway) urge fellow 'heads to get the tapes from the show. Well, I am/have
been listening to the shows straight from etree and I need to say
something:
Phish has not played this well since 94 or so. I mean, their musicianship
shines through in this show. It's unreal. The band used to be tight. The
drums used to feel closer, the guitar hotter. Page was farther up in the
mix, and mix always played a solid line without a lot of tone alteration.
The 10-07 show is a showcase for how well the musicians in this band know
their instruments. I agree wholeheartedly with the people who have said
"enough with the disappointment about no third set...." I mean, I was
expecting a Gamehendge, or the entire Rift album, or something crazy at
NYE and what did I get? Meatstick. Twice. That didn't stop Big Cypress
from being the most amazing musical experience for me.
What I'm trying to say is this -- I'm infinitely glad that the band pulled
off a show like this before they took their break. They have really come
full circle, and when they come back -- look out.
Get the tapes.
Peace,
Rob
--
"T�chez de gardez toujours un morceau de ciel
au-dessus de votre vie..."
-Marcel Proust
Date: Tue, 10 Oct 2000 02:34:33 -0700 (PDT)
From: David W. Cooke [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Shoreline (10/07/00) Review
Normally I wouldn't talk about the scene or other non-music things, but I
do want to say that anyone who thinks that dismissed Saturday's show was
somewhere else that night. Yeah, they only played two sets and didn't
break out any songs that hadn't been played that tour, but the entire
show was SO tight! Who could've asked for more?
Set One:
First Tube (9:00)
This was a nice rocking groove that really got the crowd pumped. Of
course, it didn't hurt that I was 20 feet from Trey (Section 101, C9) for
the show. :-)
Mike's Song --> (9:30)
Wow. This surprised the hell out of me for some reason, and really
capitalized on First Tube's energy. Not a bust-out version, but featured
some pretty good, hard and dark jamming, thought I heard a Simple coming,
but instead we got...
I am Hydrogen --> (3:45)
I've never seen this live before, but it seemed to get off to a shaky
start with a lot of space. However, it was awesome how Trey used this
space and played off of it, creating that soothing song that leads so
nicely into...
Weekapaug Groove (8:00)
Two words -- "phat bass". Mike was so on tonight, and he certainly took
the reins on this one right from the get-go. Listen especially to the
slightly extended intro -- he was slapping away like a madman. Alright,
it's time to cool down, wait, is that what I think it is?
Fee (8:45)
Okay, so I've never been a huge Fee fan, but this song is definitely a
crowd pleaser, and the boys played it quite well. The exit jam at the end
of this song was definitely the highlight -- it was an excellent example
of how more ambient jamming can create this scintillating, mesmerizing
groove that just morphs into a beautiful soundscape.
Bathtub Gin (13:15)
By this point, we were all just in awe at the setlist we were getting --
there was absolutely no philler at this show. This Bathtub, while not
exceptionally exploratory, was extremely solid. The entire night featured
really tight jamming, and the Gin jam wove in and out of the mix quite
well. Along with the Mike's Groove and Fee exit jam, this was an easy
first set highlight from about the 8:00 point on.
Glide (5:00)
Good, I needed a breather. If there were any flubs on this, I didn't
notice. Luckily they hit those final chords quickly, before people had a
chance to make as much noise as they possibly can at a point that is meant
to be silent.
My Soul (7:30)
I like this song a lot. I know it's not everyone's favorite, but this
was a nice set closer and featured some beautiful keys work by
Page. Trey's solo wasn't anything too extreme, but a very solid song to
cap a nice, tightly jammed set.
Set Two:
Twist --> (10:00)
The spacey start to this was really cool, because we were all sitting
there trying to guess which song would come out of it. The morph into the
actual song was rather slow and melodic, which was really cool. The
entire song had a very danceable groove to it, not too dark, but rather
heavy and intense. After they capped off the ending vocals, the song sort
of trailed off and ended with a very ambient segue into...
Also Sprach Zarathustra (12:45)
I saw the one at Chula Vista a few nights before, and with all the
repeats they had played at first night of Shoreline, I was a little
surprised. However, this 2001 did not disappoint at all, and made me very
happy after the disappoint CV display. I was too close to tell whether
the lights were as spectacular, but the music was much much better. The
jamming between choruses was really phat and strayed much more than the
funk version they're actually covering (don't tell me you thought Phish
covered anything close to the original Strauss version!). This was a very
loose jam but a very smooth groove. It remained danceable yet exploratory
for the entire song, and Trey's keyboard added texture, not tone, to the
mix. All in all, very cool.
Tweezer (16:00)
This was EVIL. Plain and simple, this was the darkest Tweezer I have
ever heard. From the Ebeneezer part onward, the boys put together a most
intense, dark jam. Trey's keyboard work here consisted of a lot of
single-note repeats over his guitar loops while Page carried a lot of the
melodic weight. This is my pick for jam of the night, and while it never
really exited the groove it started in, this is a really enjoyable,
intense version.
Wading in the Velvet Sea (8:00)
I know a lot of people don't like this song, and I will admit it is the
cheesiest song Phish plays. C'mon guys, a power ballad? It's too
funny. However, at this moment, it was the most happy, welcome relief
from the downright sinister Tweezer which preceded it. Thank you, thank
you, thank you.
Meatstick --> (7:30)
It's the Meatstick, what else can I say? It was funky, but it's such a
simple song, that the only thing that saved this spot in the set was how
hilarious it is to see Mike and Trey dance with the Japanese lyrics
playing. And interesting segue of sorts into...
David Bowie (12:30)
When I heard Meatstick end in feedback, I was rather upset, because I
knew they were about to play Bowie (they had played Maze the night
before). Having just seen one of the best Bowie's to date at Irvine, I
was sort of bitter about "wasting" a good jam session on something similar
that could never meet expectations. Again, they had basically no high-hat
section (30 seconds tops) and went right into the vocals. Continuing with
the theme of the night, this jam was tight rather than exploratory. It
rocked out quite hard, so while the Irvine one was levels above this one,
it was a tight Bowie nonetheless and really jazzed everyone up at the end
when we began to pick out the opening riff to...
Tweeprise (3:45)
I love Tweezer Reprise, and I love it even more when it's played as a
set closer instead of an encore. Mike was tearing it up on the bass with
this one.
Encore:
You Enjoy Myself (22:00)
This was a very standard You Enjoy Myself with not-all-that-thrilling
jamming, but it is so cool to hear, and a standard YEM is still so good,
that it was the easy call for the encore. The harmonized vocal jam was
quite interesting, but I thought they should have ended it about 3:00
earlier when the crowd thought they were going to. It sort of dragged
after this point, thought it sounded quite good.
Overall, this show was so fucking solid it didn't matter that there was no
Gamehenge (though the only Gamehenge song they had played since Vegas was
Possum once) or only two sets -- this show rocked. It was so energetic
and the vibe was so intense, that it was easily tops of the tour I
caught. The entire show was flawless setlist-wise in my book, with the
exception of maybe the Meatstick, though it totally lightened things up
before the intense closure. The show was magnificent and will definitely
keep me thinking highly during this break. Peace.
Date: Tue, 10 Oct 2000 14:41:48 -0700
From: John Erganian [email protected]
Reply-To: John Erganian [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: 10/7
a little context: 48th show since '93, section 101 T, from the west coast,
5th show of the fall, got hooked on 'em while in the bay area, so i'm glad
they finished up on the left coast--that really meant a lot to us.
first: enough about the third set that did not happen. if it was going to
happen, it would not have been by surprise, as phish seems to like to plan
out such events. come on people, use some common sense so you can avoid
experiencing unnecessary disappointments in the future.
second: in the future, appreciate what you get, and try to understand it.
this goes for you why-didn't-we-get-any-gamehendge people, too. this was the
last one for a while, and phish handled it in a classy manner by playing many
favoites and saying nothing (as what neeed to be said was said in vegas,
allowing these two shows to speak for themselves).
third: if you weren't there, i highly suggest getting a listen to the
following tunes:
mike's groove: better than the past few versions i've seen (i know that
doesn't mean much), more melodic weekapaug than vegas, although the intensity
suffers from being in the first set. one can only imagine if this would have
popped up in the second set. the highlight was the hydrogen, which had a
little something extra.
my soul: when i first heard this tune at ventura in '97, i commented to the
person next to me, "who let the grateful dead in the building?" this song is
in the truckin' style, and tonight's version simply rocked, rolled and raged,
with equal contributions from page, trey and the rhythym section, bouncing
and banging and screaming and smoking thier way toward the first set climax.
2001: supernaturally tight, the band was onto something beyond the tightness
shown in the 2nd set at irvine two nights earlier. this was the super boogie
psychedelic rock star funk party train leaving the station with everybody on
it. i enjoyed it more than the big cypress version, which i had previously
thought set the standard for tight grooving.
tweezer: this one had been building for a while--i could feel it. i will
say i've never heard the boys sound the way they did on this one. they truly
played as one, making one sound, not four. i hope you can hear it on the
tapes.
velvet sea: hardened jam-heads don't like it b/c it's sappy--so f'n what.
thoughtful, heartfelt lyrics, otherworldly soloing from trey, and a continued
"one sound" from the band makes this the best version of the many i've
heard. i was moved to tears.
meatstick: comparable to the vegas version, although the band was much
tighter tonight. again, the japanese lyrics are a trip. because they have
no meaning, they are, to me, cooler than the english lyrics which you know
are silly. can't get it out my head. a must hear.
note: this was a welcome flashback to the end of the NYE set, as these were
the last two songs played. this was certainly on the boys' mind. they were
conveying powerful emotions through their playing and singing, emotions i
would sum up as pure joy.
bowie: insanely tight, as good as the version at irvine 2 nights earlier,
they nailed the composed section like i've never heard.
reprise: a continuation of the powerful "one sound" begun with 2001 and
honed further during tweezer. wow. they had us in the palm of their hand.
encore: yes, just one, but it was YEM for pete's sake. it was pretty good,
and i think the boys were emotionally spent from the second set. i honestly
thought they would not come back for an encore (and i, for one, would have
been satisfied), or, if they did, it would be acapella, because nothing could
top the musicianship and emotion of the second set. encores are tough, as
they are separated from the momemtum of the second set. still, funk was
explored, tramps were brought out, jumped on, and taken away for the last
time for a long time, trey held the long note just like you like, bass solo,
drum solo!? and a spooky vocal jam combined with chris's lights brought the
first 17 to a close.
see you all the next time around
Date: Tue, 10 Oct 2000 17:22:21 -0500
From: "Johnson, Rob" [email protected]
Subject: 10/7 Review
Hey there everybody, I don't mean to squash other's opinions, but I just had
to respond to a few things I have read in other reviews. First of all,
several people have described this 2001 as ordinary or nothing special, and
I have to respectfully disagree. I thought this version of 2001 was CLEARLY
the best I have seen or heard on tape since the version from the Great Went.
The funk was so strong, and Trey's guitar sound was HUGE!! Part of that may
be because I was way down front and could feel the bass in my bones, and
Mike was absolutely a MONSTER on this 2001!! I was raving about Mike's work
on this song after the show when my friend Sean just smiled and said "Dude,
it's Mike's BAND!" I don't know about that, but Mike had a very strong Cali
run, much love and respect to Mike!
Another point that I will respectfully disagree with some others on is that
I thought this Bowie was even fatter than Irvine, although I would be the
first to say that the Irvine version was magnificent. I am also surprised
that nobody has commented on how the big ending of Bowie led SO perfectly
into Tweezer Reprise, the energy level down on the floor was absolutely off
the hook for this sequence! I also thought the YEM was well above average,
my whole section was grooving HARD to the funk jam, it was like being at a
rave or something. Besides, as a drummer, Fishman's oh-so-rare drum solo
was positively orgasmic to me. He was so in the pocket it was scary! You
are welcome to disagree with me, and the two shows before this one did set a
VERY high standard, but I thought the second set of this show was the
fattest set of the California run, although I may go with Irvine as the
fattest overall show.
As for all the folks who were disappointed that none of the rumors came
true, shouldn't we all know by now to be skeptical of that stuff? Sure, it
would have been great if they played three sets, or covered an album, or any
number of rumors I heard in the lot, but I think Phish went out in fine
fashion. With the exception of My Soul and 2001, both of which have been
extensively reworked by Phish, there were no covers at this show, no exotic
bust-outs, just the very cream of Phish's original material. Again, I'm not
trying to bust anyone's chops or tell them they don't have a right to
disagree with me, it's just hard for me to understand someone complaining
about a show with First Tube, Mike's Groove, Bathtub Gin, (and those were
all in the first set!) 2001, Tweezer (which was as amazingly incredible as
others have already said it was), David Bowie, and You Enjoy Myself.
I should also say that I had a wonderful time in Cali and give much love and
respect to all the kind brothers and sisters who made this southern boy feel
at home. For that matter, a BIG shout out to the Japanese crew who made it
for the shows, they were very cool and I really enjoyed getting a chance to
meet them and party with them. If that is a sample of what Japanese heads
are like, sign me up for the next Japan tour!!
Peace,
Rob Johnson
Date: Tue, 28 Nov 2000 18:29:02 -0500
From: Sean Quinlan [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: 10/7/00
I felt that i just needed to add my two sense about the final show. I have
read some reviews and heard other people complain about the intensity of the
show, and how many of them felt that it was a let down. Did anybody see the
setlists? they played the classic pairing of Mikes>H2>Weekapaug, Glide,
Bathtub Gin, 2001, Tweezer, David Bowie, and to top it all of, the perfect
YEM encore. We can not always expect them to play the best versions of these
songs everytime we see them, and we can not expect that because it was the
last show for a long time that they were guaranteed to be "on". personally,
i thought that they were on, despite others that think they were lacking.
And remember, this was probably an emotional time for them too. I am sure
that they are psyched about having a break, but this was/is potentially the
last show they will ever play together (god help us).
That show was exactly what they should have played, and the perfect thank
you to all of us fans. They weeded out the crap, and played what we came to
see. When was the last time that they played such heavyweights in one show
(outside of Big cypress). I realize people were let down because we were all
expecting three sets, and there was this rumor of "Abbey Road" floating
around, but that was our own fault for believing these insane rumors. I
would take two solid sets of phish over the beatles anyday. It was humorous
that phish actually played into this by playing let It be as post show
music. anyway, I only got to see 4 shows on this tour - the 2 shoreline, and
the 2 vegas, and minus the first night shoreline (which was played well, but
lacked a good setlist), they were some of the best shows i have seen out of
my 91. In my opinion, they haven't been this hot since summer 98.
I will get off my soap box now.
Anyway, phish did not disappoint on this night, and I would like to thank
them from the bottom of my soul for bringing me the greatest times and music
of my life for the last six years. -Capt. Kazoo
Date: Sun, 8 Oct 2000 15:38:39 -0700
From: P7A77 [email protected]
To: [email protected]
I've been a fan ever since I heard YEM for the first time off of
Junta in 1992. So not there from the beginning, but definitely here
for a while. I'm not part of the "scene" so much, tho' I don't think
I'm particularly outside of it either. I spent the last night of the
tour on a moderately intense amount of acid (boo to the woman who
burned us in the lot, but yay to the nice gentleman with a dropper in
the lawn). Phish has always been a rather personal experience for
me. I knew it was going to be a show to remember, and while I hoped
for a third set, I think they couldn't have done anything better than
they did. But again, I had a head full of acid, so what the hell do
I know. :)
It seems some folks are a bit annoyed by the shorter sets and no
"kitchen sink" jams. But there was a lot of emotion going into this,
from the fans and the band, and from the beginning of First Tube I
just got a sense from the music and monitors that they were giving us
a tearful farewell. When I hear Mike's straight into Hydrogen I knew
that they'd be bringing a lot of the big guns but in pared down,
relaxed, solid versions. Sort of like a last little kiss before we
part ways.
I was hoping for a Suzie. I've seen I think about ten shows in the
past eight years and this is the one favorite of mine that I haven't
seen. However, I'd also never seen a First Tube, Hydrogen, Glide,
Twist, or 2001, either, so what the hell am I complaining about?
There's also usually at least one or two songs per show that I've
seen that I didn't particularly like the version of or like the song
all too well, or felt that they were a bit off in some way. Not so
last night. Everything seemed to just hit its mark. The first set
was nice and solid, set the mood for some good set-break relaxation.
The second set was just amazing. I'm not sure, but I think
practically every song segued into the next one. A great balance and
flow. I also don't think there were many covers the last night
(except for 2001 sorta, and I don't know if My Soul is an original),
which I'm sure was intentional.
The encore was especially fitting given that YEM was the first song I
ever heard (and what was got me instantly hooked). My wife - who
isn't quite as into them as I am, but is starting to see the light -
asked me while it was playing if it was one of the ones I wanted to
see, to which I told her it was my favorite song ever. That caused
me to realize what exactly was going on and how special the moment
was. As stated, not the most far-reaching YEM ever, but a nice solid
peaceful (almost gospel-like) vocal jam with a sweet closer that had
me close to tears.
The only thing that had potential to ruin it was some guy behind me
kept complaining that he didn't have beers and then was just talking
and talking during the first part of YEM. At one point he said "this
is one of my favorite songs". Then shut the fuck up, why don't you?
Bloody hell. But either he shut up or I tuned him out, because I got
over it.
I've been skipping the recent discussions on Kid Rock and the like,
but for those who feel like you didn't get what you deserved or they
owed you this or that or whatever... get over yourselves. From the
first days of setlists that I saw, I knew what kind of tour this was
going to be. They were just giving everything one last familiar
shake. Sure, a big three-day concert or more than two sets or a pile
of guests would have been nice and a fun at the time, but I think as
time wears on, this will be remembered and appreciated as just a good
solid appropriate end to a most wonderful journey.
I can't even theorize if this is the end or not. I'm somewhat hoping
that it is. How long can one group play the same songs and still
have them mean something? I hope that they get back together, but
that it's after a good time apart and working on their own tastes and
styles and directions. Maybe it will help trim the fat of the scene.
I hope the next wave (if there is one) of Phish will be drastically
different and more experimental than what we've seen. I hope they
lose a lot of their fans and then REALLY come back strong after
several years of being all but forgotten with something on a whole
other level. It will never be the same, but I don't think it can be
anyway. I'd rather this chapter be closed on a good note.
...and another box set and a full two-concert DVD. :)
-P7A77
Date: Thu, 12 Oct 2000 01:04:35 -0500
From: Michael Gagliano [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: shoreline 10/7
Last show of the tour. Grabbed the same seats as last night - 8th row in
front of the video screen and like last night the sound and view were
incredible. Shoreline ROCKS!
The show started as if it was a classic in the making. Holy Energy! First
Tube, Mikes Medley, Fee, Gin. The first six songs were unbelievable.
Mistake free and tight. Highlights being the great Mike's. Trey had it
going on this one. Fee is a personal favorite. I wish Trey would go off at
the end. Kind of jazz jam ala Champaign '97. The Gin rocked as well with
about a 10 min jam. My only complaint would be the finish of Glide, My
Soul. In my opinion My Soul sucks. Simple 12 bar blues. I don't mind
Glide, but My Soul's gotta go.
The second set was no slouch either. The Twist was tight. Nice snaky little
jam that segued into 2001. Great funk as Gordo led this jam. Tweezer was
great as well. A different type of jam than the usual 4/4 jam they do. I'd
like to hear this on disc. A slight mid-set letdown with Wading although
this one is starting to grow on me similar to Wharf Rat. Meatstick was
pretty straight forward. Was very disappointed when I heard Tweezerprise. I
thought for sure they'd play at least one or two more. Oh well. That's what
you get when you have high expectations for a tour closer. The YEM encore
did make things alright as the jam was real good.
Thought Friday's show was better but by no means was Saturday's show bad.
Hardly! Great 2 night run and couldn't agree more with taking a long break.
Looking forward to a 2002 spring tour!
Gags
Date: Thu, 12 Oct 2000 10:03:53 -0400
From: "Giglio, Joe" [email protected]
Subject: 10/7 shoreline... last time?
The NY times got a report off the Associated press from the manager (John
Paluska) of Phish saying that they had "hit a point of exhaustion" after 17
years of touring, & need to take a break, & redefine their careers. they
want to spend some time w/their families. WHO CAN BLAME THEM???? they've
been touring the WORLD like modern day crusaders for 15 fuckin years. I'd
need a break too. ENJOY BOYS!!!
I think that they will be back for "shorter" tours after about a 2 or 3 year
lay off. They'll get bored eventually. The average age of the band is only
36. That's old for an athlete but not a musician. they'll be back. they
need each other as much as the world needs them.
there's plenty of "live" phishlegs to hear for the time being, but...
I'll miss the vibe of the live show. I always thought of phish as a living
breathing thing, not digital info bits.
something gets lost in the translation for me.
as far as the DEAD-PHISH connection.
I saw the Dead about 20 times form 84-95, and IMHO the best days of the dead
were from 65-80 (the acid test days being my favorite). that's 15 years.
It seems that phish didn't want to follow in the Dead's footsteps after all.
they left at the TOP of their game.
Much to my dismay.
PHISH has been my favorite band since i saw them at the Somerville (MA)
theatre in 88. I saw that band go from rooms of 200 people to fields of
80,000... I was at New years 2000. I saw phish over 30 times. & now i'm
glad i did.
Just a "quirky little band from Vermont".
THis feels like when one of your best friends moves far away. You say that
you'll keep in touch, & you hope to see them again someday, but you never
know what the future holds...
John Lennon was once said. "life is what happens while you are busy making
other plans."
good luck PHISH!!!! I'll support whatever you guys decide to do.
Keep me posted.
Much love
later.
PS
thanks for the Lowell auditorium (94?-95?) gig w/Gloria Stienhem. My all
time favorite night w/you guys
(NY2K excluded)
Date: Tue, 10 Oct 2000 13:15:18 -0700 (PDT)
From: Don Davies [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Shoreline 10/7/00 Review
Hi.
I flew down to SF to checkout the Shoreline show, one that could easily
be the "last time", at least for Phish as we know them.
I was really happy with the show. I don't really like the new songs
very much (been going to shows for the last 10 years), so it was really
a treat to hear so many old favorites. I really liked the Mike's >
Hydrogen > Groove and the Tweezer was refreshingly twisted. Bowie,
Bathtub Gin, YEM and 2001 were nice, but unremarkable. The band did
seem pretty worn out, Trey made some mistakes in Hydrogen and Bowie,
but they did seem determined to play well.
I think its really funny that so many Phish heads were expecting three
sets, to hear some crazy songs or covers, or to have another special
guest. After the lights went up so many people were still just sitting
there in disbelief, minds unblown. I wasn't waiting for anything,
maybe thats why I enjoyed the show so much.
Don
Date: Mon, 9 Oct 2000 13:26:46 -0700 (PDT)
From: Andrew Farbstein [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: 10-7-00 review
okay, so after the previous' days nuttyness, and the awesome music, I was
pumped for the last show. After Vegas, I felt better about the fact that this
would not be my last show ever. I went in early so I could be in the front of
the middle of the lawn, as the sound really varies from side to side. After a
great food fight (no shit!), something strange happened. As many of you know,
they started playing "This could be the last time" by the Stones. I was
shocked and saddened by this. Was Phish just fucking with us, or were they
just trying to make things easier? I don't know, but it kind of put a damper
on things when they came out five minutes later. First Tube ruled. Trey and
the boys were clearly playing tight. It raged for a while until Mike' Groove
began. Mike's itself was awesome and hard rockin, but I couldn't help but
think that the hits were going to come out tonight for the last show.
Hydrogen was beautiful as always, and Weekapaug also rocked. AHHH...FEE!!! If
you can believe it, I have seen 37 shows since '94 and never seen a Fee. It
ruled. Trey remembered all the words and there was actually a cool little jam
afterwards. I'm sure there always is, but I had never seen it so I didn't
know, and I actually don't have any on tape. Gin once again made me feel that
the hit parade was on tonight, but a great jam made me feel better. Glide was
well played, much better then the one in Albany. My Soul closed it out in a
nice rockin' way, and it made lots of people around me think that we were
really in for three sets. After a long set break, that idea was dashed for
me. Twist opened up the second set, and I was super psyched, since me and my
friends had been singing it the entire drive up from Irvine. Not as rockin as
previous fall versions, but happy for me anyways. 2001 was the same, not as
great as especially the Great Woods one, but the funky jam after the first
main section really got me groovin. Tweezer was sick in my opinion. They
blasted thru this one without ever letting the energy level drop. Lots of cool
segues that worked real well on many levels. Velvet Sea...oh god, my tear
jerker. It was tough to listen to this. all I could think about was Cypress
and all the memories associated with this song. Being that it was the last
show, I didn't want to be thinking about previous great moments, but I
couldn't help it. The jam at the end was simply beautiful. Meatstick was
super fun for me. It also brought Cypress into my mind, until the Japenese
part. I had not seen it previously, and without knowing Japenese, it sounded
so great and it was awesome to watch Mike and Trey do the dance for awhile.
Bowie, my favorite song, was awesome, but to me, not as great as Irvine. It
still rocked the house down, though, as Trey hit the composed part much
bettter than Irvine. The ending energy was awesome too. TWEEPRISE ended the
set in typical fashion. As the boys left the stage, I was getting this
horrible feeling of finality. I don't know why, but I felt like this was the
last Phish song I would hear. I looked over to my friend, and I told him that
the choice would be YEM, one and only. Of course, it was. A great YEM after
Trey remember the beginning composed part (thank god for Page, he actually
played Trey's part for a bar or two), and it went real well from there.
After it was over, I started to get real upset, due to the "let it be" over
the PA. Were they trying to tell us that this could be the last time and we
should let it be? That's what I think. I hate to say it, but I truly believe
that this COULD be the last time, no matter what they said in Vegas. I hope
I'm wrong. There was a round of applause for the road crew, and then I took a
picture of the almost empty stage. I'm going to frame it. As I walked
towards shakedown street, I realized that everyone was mellow and subdued,
unlike normal. Maybe a lot of people felt the was I did. SAD. Oh well, if
this is the end, I would like to thank everyone who made this scene so
wonderful to me, and I hope I see all of you soon at the NEXT show, if there
ever is one.
Date: Mon, 09 Oct 2000 15:11:33 PDT
From: Marc Carver [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: 10/07/00 Shoreline review
i think the best of the 7 shows i saw was 10/7 - pure phish.. no guests,
playing what they wanted. every note counted. i have never seen them play
w/ so much emotion before (except for maybe BC).. Trey was holding back the
tears at various parts of the show.. First Tube was strong - a little more
stretched out than usual. the Mike's > Groove was pretty old fashioned and
straight forward.. i think i liked the Vegas Mike's and Weekapaug better,
but i'll have to relisten. Fee and Gide were both surprises.. the Bathtub
was good - not nearly as great as the Vegas version, though. my favorite My
Soul ever.. i was expecting a SOAMelt closer for set 1 - but oh well.. Twist
was good - got the crowd warmed up for the craziness about to follow. i
thought the Vegas Twist was better - there was a quick Spooky tease in
the Shoreline version, but they didn't jam it out like in Vegas.. 2001 >
Tweezer was unbelievable - you really must hear the Tweezer.. Trey owned it.
it sounded like they were wanting to go into WMGGW - same jam as the post
DWD jam in Polaris. the Wading was really powerful - i'm not a big fan..
but, this version floored me.. Trey put so much energy into it - i really
thought he was gonna start bawling. he got really choked up after
Meatstick, too.. David Bowie was really tight - pretty straight forward, but
perfect. i liked the Phoenix version the best of the 3 i saw. Trey did the
build-up part at the end about 10 times.. the Tweeprise was also stretched
out a bit - a minor flub, but it came together at the end and the whole
place went nuts. when they went off for the encore, everyone knew YEM was
coming.. perfect version - nice and long (20-25 minutes?) w/ a really
angelic vocal jam.. the harmonies sounded amazing. one of the coolest
things of the night was after the show - people just stood there in shock..
like everyone just got punched in the gut and got the wind knocked out..
then the crew came out to start breaking down the stage.. they got an
ovation that lasted for about 5 minutes. it was great to see the smiles on
all of their faces.. definately the biggest "thank you" the crew has ever
received. thanks to Phish for providing me with 9 amazing years of music!
Date: Mon, 09 Oct 2000 16:47:54 -0700
From: George Barnidge [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: 10/7/00 Review
I do not think there is any doubt in the minds of those who attended the
10/7/00 show that it was nothing but intense throughout the entire
concert(although maybe a little short in light of our high expectations and
rumors of a third set). Despite having a wonderful evening full of dancing,
screaming, and emotional orgasms, I cannot help but feel more than a little
disappointed at Phish for their "overall" performance. So maybe we did not
get the third set that was rumored or maybe Weir did not make a second
appearance as we had all hoped, but these trivialites can be forgiven. What I
am most disppointed about was that Phish did not once say anything to the
crowd in thanks for their attendance or anything about their temporary leave
of absense. Granted, Phish has never been the type of band to have much crowd
communication (strictly on a vocal level here. Obviously their musical
interaction with their fans is unparalleled), but I expected a little more
from them, especially it being their last show. I think it is safe to assume
that Phish knows that we all know about their break, but it would have been
courteous and respectful had they at least tied the crowd, us the fans who
travel across the country to see something truly magical, into their last
show. It is not just Phish who will be taking a break from their fans, but
also the fans who will be taking a break from Phish. Thank you. Comments:
[email protected]
Date: Tue, 10 Oct 2000 15:07:51 GMT
From: Matt Pryor [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: Second night shoreline review
Last night shoreline and the last night for a long while (anything over a
few months is considered long to me). Is anyone else experiencing an
immediate and at times overwhelming feeling of withdrawl- a little sad every
time you hear Phish now, knowing you won't have the live experience for
awhile? It's all great- absence makes the heart grow fonder, especially
when you go out on such a great note. AS for the show itself, well...
First set, "First Tube" opener. Just plain rippin'- so incredibly
intense that I think it was the first time I broke into a sweat during the
first song (despite the chilly air that kept many in sweaters and cords).
And then...Mike's- a tune I flew out to Cali desperately hoping to hear- a
wonderful slightly evil Mike's which could've definitely lead to a "Ha Ha
Ha" at one point, but mellowed out and instead lead to an incredibly
wonderful and playful Hydrogen. Outside of the beauty of this song, the
best part for me is the crack by Fishman at the end and the first chord of
Weekapaug- at this point I looked up to the lawn crowd on whom the lights
were shining and everyone just electrified- pure beauty. After a very fun
Weekapaug they gave me (and many others I am sure) my first Fee. Very
happy- and several people around me were inserting the appropriate sound
effects (i.e. nipple cutting and water splashing) at the right moments which
I thought was hilarious. This and Bathtub got everyone into this communal
wide grin which, after a crowd-commending "Glide" spilled over into as near
an emotional overload I've had in awhile with the best "My Soul" I've every
experienced or heard on tape. Very long version- somewhere between 10-12
minutes and after Page's full and energetic solos, Trey just took off and
put this tune in overdrive. Pay attention to Page's fills during Trey's
solo, though, it's amazing to hear what he is playing when most are
mesmerized by Trey's guitar artwork (mind you, this comes from a phan with
the bumper sticker "Page fans are people too").
The second set was just as wonderful but I will shorten this review by
only saying that the Tweezer was demonic- dark, hard grooves that were
perfectly countered by the beautiful high solos in Velvet Sea...and later,
the second Bowie in three shows but just as sick as Irvine and the fact they
wanted to play it so bad made it spill over that much more into every
crevice of this body. I know this doesn't get much attention from many
people but the "Tweezer Reprise" was the most intense of any I;ve heard- it
really closed the set off with most people searching for air.
As for YEM, if the jam itself wasn't enough for you- Fish and Mike's
solos were wonderful- the gorgeous vocal jam at the end kind of just left
you standing there really appreciating all that these guys can do with their
talent. The standing ovation for the crew was also another highlight of the
night and I hope they knew we were cheering for them. By any means, listen
to the internet broadcast of this show tonight (can find info about it on
andy's website) or get the tapes somehow. It was wonderful and I want to
thank everyone who was there with me and the north carolina lovelight who
couldn't make it.
Matt Pryor
Ann Arbor, MI
Date: Mon, 09 Oct 2000 13:17:41 EDT
From: [email protected]
Subject: 10/07/2000 review
This show was definitely one for the books. It reminded me a lot like Big
Cypress in many ways-- although I know that no standard show will *EVER* be
comparable to what was experienced in the everglades. Like Big Cypress, there
weren't really any HUGE SONG BUSTOUTS like Harpua, Forbin's, Tela, Mound,
Destiny, etc. but instead what was delivered were super phantastically played
phan phavorites and delivered at the perfect timing: a classic Mike's Groove,
Gin, 2001, Tweezer, Bowie, and YEM....I mean, seriously when was the last time
that ALL of these songs appeared in the same two-set standard show?? And just
like at Big Cypress with the crowd roaring at "Here Comes The Sun", the crowd
did likewise at Shoreline during "Let It Be" as the crew tore down the
stage...giving the band and the entire crew a final thank you for the year
(and probably at least a year to come). This was definitely a show to
remember. Highlights in the first set were the Mike's Groove and Gin. For the
second set, an incredible Twis t->2001->Tweezer was delivered. A beautiful
Velvet Sea followed. Meatstick was great as always with the Japanese lyrics
and dancing...and then right into an intense Bowie!! It was really nice to
hear Tweeprise inside a set rather than in the encore. And of course a phatty
YEM for the encore, which was definitely appropriate for their last song for
awhile since YEM is probably *THE* song that defines Phish. =) I guess that's
about it..thanks for reading my review and I hope everyone has a good off-tour
season. Peace, Todd
Date: Sun, 08 Oct 2000 02:09:30 -0700
From: Bret Miller [email protected]
To: [email protected]
Subject: 10/7/00 review
This being the final show of the tour, and apparently the final show for a
while, I think mist everyone expected something spectacular- 3 sets, special
guest(s), whatever. Alas, that was not to be. Bob Weir's appearance on
Friday would have to suffice for guest appearances, and the show was a
standard 2 sets-and-an-encore format. A lot of people seemed surprised by
that; I know I was. Maybe the town insists on all concerts breaking up before
midnight.
The show itself was a lot of fun. The first set opened with a straight forward
1st Tube, followed by Mike's. At the moment I recognized the first notes of
Mike's, I was sure we were in for an epic Mike's>everything jam. Nope, it was
the old classic Mike's>Hydrogen>Weekapaug trio. Fee was it's usual charming
self. The Bathtub Gin jam continues to improve. I've only heard a few
versions of it live lately, and I love the long jams the boys are producing
lately. Following Gin came the mellow vibe of Glide. Maybe it's the thc
talking, but I really felt that the band really meant it when they sang "we're
glad, glad, glad that you're alive"-a tribute to the fans. The set closed with
an uplifting My Soul.
The second set opened up with Twist, a great song for that role. I like sets
to open with a lot of energy, especially second sets, and Twist is great for
that. The spacy jam that led out of Twist eventually turned into 2001. The
band was cruising, and the glow sticks were flying! It was a great sight to
see. The next song again tricked me into expecting something outrageous, as I
recognized Tweezer and thought "ok, here comes the big jam", but again it was
not to be. Instead, the tempo came down to a restful Wading in the Velvet Sea.
The Official Song of the New Millenium, or so I've read, came out next:
Meatstick. Always fun to hear a song about sausage. Mike and Trey danced the
Meatstick, and the last verse and chorus was sung in Japanese. Everyone was
smiling at that. After that mirth, a great David Bowie into TweePrise (I'm
lobbying for that to be the official abreviation for Tweezer Reprise- that or
ReTweeze) closed out the set.
OK, we were all thinking the same thing by then: third set, no doubt about it.
But the band came back on stage after just a few minutes, and at that point I
was sure: no epic concert tonight. Although the encore was YEM, as always a
crowd pleaser, with moderate glow stick activity and trampolines, I still felt
a bit let down at the end. As I said before, I think most of the crowd
expected a show for the ages, and by bringing out Mike's, Tweezer and YEM in
the same show (I wonder how often that happens?) but not using any of the
three classic kitchen sink jam platforms to fashion a classic kitchen sink jam
seemed anticlimactic. All in all, I'd give high marks for technical merit
(all of the songs were well-played), I'd come down a bit on artistic
impression- say a 9.0 overall, and we all know it takes 9.7 or better to win
gold.
[email protected]
Date: Sun, 08 Oct 2000 13:37:55 -0700
From: Charles Dirksen [email protected]
Subject: 10/07/99 Phish at Shoreline review
"Gamehendge is a state of mind."
-- Trey Anastasio, 09/30/00
10/07/00 Shoreline Amphitheater, Mountain View, CA
Apparently 23000 tickets were sold to each Shoreline show, but there were at
least another ten thousand people looking for tickets, or just hanging out, in
the lots. The vibe was indescribable -- like a wake for someone you know
would prefer that you'd party your ass off instead of mourn his or her death.
Not to suggest, of course, that Phish is dead, but no one knows for certain
when, or even if, they will play again. You never know what tomorrow may
bring.
The Rolling Stones "Last Time" played preshow on the house speakers just
before the lights went down, helping to further cement an already sentimental
mood. I treated this show as if it would be my last time seeing the band
*live*, and so my opinions on it will undoubtedly be prejudiced by this fact.
Despite the short sets, which were in this sense at least indicative of sets
over Phish's last year, Phish pulled out lots of Big Guns last night, and
jammed as well as they usually did in 1993-1995. In my opinion, the short
sets didn't mean dick last night, since the music was so good. Quality over
quantity, always, IMO. And Chris Kuroda and Paul Languedoc did an AMAZING
job, too!
"First Tube" was a fierce opener -- both the band and crowd seemed energized
and really into it. The Mike's Groove was one of the strongest combinations
I've heard in recent years, for damn sure. Both Mike's Song and Weekapaug
contained inspired *improvisation* that sounded beautiful and really worked,
IMO. Not a top ten or even twenty version or anything, but still awesome.
Trey was soloing creatively and spiritedly. Trey was especially playful
during the "Hydrogen," which as a result was more improvisational than it has
ever been in recent years. "Hydrogen" was particularly stunning to listen to
while staring at the moon above Shoreline's tent-posts.
I had the misfortune of being immediately in front of a bevy of intoxicated
folks who "sang" (off-key screamed) the lyrics of "Fee" along with Trey, so I
didn't enjoy this version as much as I would have ordinarily. The "closing
outro jam" of this "Fee," though, was gorgeous, as I'd hoped it would be, and
as it has often been in the last few years. I still wish they would *really*
take this out there again sometime, and more frequently, as they did on 7/5/98
in Prague and 7/8/99 in Virginia Beach.
"Bathtub Gin" was a work of art. Just a spectacular version. If you thought
the version in Vegas was a strong one (and it was, though IMO not as strong as
most Gins from the last few years), you will need to hear this one. This is
what I was hoping for when "Gin" started in Vegas -- pure, melodic hose.
It's gorgeous. This "Gin" was fantastic. The band's playing was magnificent.
Stunning. Easily a top ten version for me.
As for "Glide," which I've caught too much since 1993, but which I always
enjoy, the bevy of intoxicated folks behind me also "sang" on this one... so I
can't say I really heard it. There was NOT a long pause before the final
"GliiiiiiIIiiide" lyric, though, for whatever that's worth. [BEGIN RANT: as
an aside, I could have shhushed the folks behind me; I've found that people
usually listen to a 30 year old 215 pound 6 foot tall fellow fan who is
polite; but I didn't see the point... They paid as much as I did to get in
(if not more), and well, if they want to scream along with "Glide," and be
insensitive of their fellow fans, that's their karma... it comes with the
territory at rock shows that someone around you is going to be annoying at
some point, anyway... but still, people who talk during the jam segment of a
song like "Gin" and yet scream along with Trey's singing on songs like "Fee"
and "Glide" will ALWAYS piss me off.. I think it's inconsiderate of fellow
fans, but whatever.. and I know I'm preaching/lecturing/ranting to the choir..
:-) END RANT].
"My Soul" has never been a favorite of mine, but Trey obviously digs it A LOT.
I was really hoping for a siiick and twisted "Split Open and Melt" to close
this first set, since this was obviously going to be a "Big Guns" night. "My
Soul" is a popular song, of course -- the crowd loved this version, and Phish
played it really well (as they often do). A strong close to the short but
musically excellent set.
"Twist Around" was an interesting opener. I enjoyed it, even if it didn't
reach the peaks that the "Mike's," "Weekapaug" and "Gin" had in the first set.
"2001" was played well in Vegas and was performed well here, too. It's
incredible how popular this song has become at Phish shows. I will never
forget seeing it at Wolf Trap on 7/17/93, and being blown away by it *then*
along with thousands of other fans. It's come a long way. This version was
no slouch but certainly not a "legendary" version. Chris's lightshow was, for
me, the highlight of the version.
"Tweezer," on the other hand, was magnificent. The first few minutes of the
jam segment were led (as usual) by Trey with his ingenious melodic
sensibility, with forceful accompaniment from Mike, Fish and Page. When Trey
grew tired of this melodious jam, he went to his keyboard and -- with help
from Mike, Page and Fish -- completely changed the direction of the version
into a mesmerizingly dark, intense, fiendish groove. This repetitive but
still fierce groove slowly and steadily faded out over the course of several
minutes. I thought it was an awesome version, even though, after the first
five or so minutes of the jam segment, you couldn't really dance to it (unless
the music was accompanying your journeys in a parallel universe, of course).
"Wading in the Velvet Sea" is a song that I am not usually fond of, but it was
*PERFECT* and *APPROPRIATE* this evening. A beautiful version that charmed
the audience and made for a warm "group hug" of sorts. The band's harmonies
were quite good, too!
I've never been a fan of "Meatstick," but I can't help but smile and at least
sway to its music and lyrics (some of which were in Japanese, as they were in
Vegas). Mike and Trey did the Meatstick Dance during this version just as
they had in Vegas last weekend, and the music of this version was, at least
IMO, neither more nor less inspired than last week's. Didn't do all that much
as I heard it, but it was nevertheless very well received by the audience.
"David Bowie" had a brief hi-hat intro (Trey seemed eager to get on with it
and, after only about 20 seconds or so, if that, motioned to Fishman to swoosh
the hi-hat to signal the start of the composed intro). I thought this version
of "Bowie" was INCREDIBLE, as far as Bowies from the last few years go.
Easily one of the tightest and most powerful versions I've heard from those of
the last few years, but I didn't hear the Irvine version the other night, and
I'm told on good authority that that version was spectacular. I don't know
how this version compared with the Irvine one, but this version, no matter
what, was one of the best I've heard from Phish since 1995. It wasn't too
long... just the right length. Must-hear, IMO.
"Tweezer Reprise" was well-received by the crowd and closed the set strong.
I thought (along with hundreds of other fans in attendance, no doubt) for sure
we'd get a "You Enjoy Myself" encore given the brevity of this second set, and
I was pleasantly not surprised. Trey wasn't as tight as he usually is in the
opening, but the "pre-Snoopy" section was beautiful and accompanied well by
Chris on lightboard. The rest of the YEM definitely had moments of strength,
but the jam segment, for the most part, consisted of Trey noodling and Mike
tearing it up. Fishman also took a brief solo, which was awesome and, of
course, very rare to hear. But the jam didn't peak at all before the vocal
jam. The vocal jam was of the "harmonize together on different sounds"
variety, and was enchanting. Though everyone hoped for and wanted more
(presumably the band as well), Shoreline has a curfew. Rumor had it that
they/BGP(?SFX?) wouldn't let Phish play another hour, even though Phish was
willing to pay the price for it. :-(
The post-show music was The Beatles "Let It Be," and, during this, as the crew
came out to take everything down, the crowd gave them a standing ovation. It
was heart-warming. I wish the band could have seen it (did they?).
Hopefully they at least heard it.
If Phish has ever played "YEM," "Bowie," "Gin," "Tweezer" and "Mike's Groove"
in the same show, it has not occurred since 1990. This show is phishtorically
monumental and must-hear for this reason alone, but given the strength of the
"Mike's Groove," "Gin," "Tweezer" and "Bowie," it's definitely a must-hear,
get-tapes-at- all-costs show, despite the brevity of the sets.
together.. so I will be thanking them and a lot of other people who
ought to be thanked in another, separate post, which will include a
tape offer in their honor. 8^]
THANK YOU, PHISH!!!
two cents,
charlie
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