ahhh, phish...

goddamn how I miss this band sometimes. I saw way more of them than I should have, and in 1997 in particular I saw some exceptional shows all over the country. these guys are masters of their instruments, can improvise like mind-readers, and rarely let the phans down. I would bet you've never heard a version of Hendrix's "Isabella" like this (at about 4:45 it gets real funky, and you should probably ignore Trey's "dancing"):



I tried to find a vid that showcased the mind-blowing light work of Chris Kuroda, their light guy. his work was as much a part of the show as the music. this vid was shot at Big Cypress, Fla. on NYE 2000, where the band played from around 10:30 pm until about 7:30 am straight thru. nonstop. one of the most magical musical experiences ever. this is the last ten minutes of a sick "2001: Also Sprach Zarathustra" shot from the "taper's section" behind the soundboard, and the video, while not great, gives a good idea of what it was like:



and finally, something completely different:



it's good to remind ourselves, thru whatever means of joy we seek, that the human animal is sometimes capable of more than savagery; that we do, in fact, dance.