, attached to 1997-12-11

Review by AdROC

AdROC An absolute hidden gem of a show, and a personal treasure. This was the first show I ever saw for these guys in my hometown. So, though I am biased from an overall experience/sentimental standpoint - the music was simply some of the most far reaching and dynamic I've ever heard Phish play. It left and indelible mark on the band, or so it would seem given Trey's comments upon their 1999 return, where he commented "this is truly a favorite room of ours."

The 1st set is pure gold, with excursions on songs you may have a hard time finding elsewhere. The rollicking DWD melts into a mellow jam that leaves you in a trance, and after being hypnotized, the boys eerily slide into an raging Maze. Upon inspection of the set list, one would think things couldn't get higher from that one two punch... well, listen to Limb By Limb, and you will be left stunned. In this phan's humble opinion - an all timer for sure, with simply incredible lead playing by Trey. Hard to find a version that reaches such heights. The set closes as a 2nd set would, with show closers - so its as if instead of "sets" here - there were "acts" 1 & 2... two distinct and uniquely poignant parts of a show, since after the break it was a whole other ball game...

Many fans will recall the first ever Roses Are Free, the debut that made the Bittersweet Motel DVD. This launched a 2nd set that was pure energy and rock and roll. BBFCFM was nuts and as I recall - saw the typically stationary Trey running around, jumping off things. The man was truly possessed that night!

Anyway, without rambling too much here... that's my review, the only one I think I'll ever do - I was compelled to for this treasure. I encourage everyone to dig around for it. X marks the spot.


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