Phish

Phish Live Performance of 'Simple' from A Live One Album

• On January 1, 1990, Phish performed “Simple,” which was later featured on their live album *A Live One*, released in 1998. At this point in their ... Read Full Description >

  On January 1, 1990, Phish performed “Simple,” which was later featured on their live album *A Live One*, released in 1998. At this point in their career, Phish was gaining prominence within the American jam band scene after the release of their first studio album, *Junta*, in 1989. The band was known for their improvisational style and blending of various musical genres, which they showcased during live performances. Notably, this era marked a significant evolution in their sound as they incorporated a variety of instruments and extended musical passages, characteristic of their live shows. The inclusion of alto saxophone and trombone in the recording highlights the band’s willingness to experiment with their arrangements, contributing to a rich sonic palette that distinguishes their live performances. This period set the stage for Phish’s rising popularity and their later expansive discography and dedicated fanbase.

Phish Full Concert at The Georgia Theatre, Athens: February 1, 1990

The Georgia Theatre
Athens, GA, United States

• On February 1, 1990, Phish performed at The Georgia Theatre in Athens, Georgia, during a pivotal moment in their early career. This live recording too... Read Full Description >

  On February 1, 1990, Phish performed at The Georgia Theatre in Athens, Georgia, during a pivotal moment in their early career. This live recording took place shortly after the release of their third studio album, "Lawn Boy," which came out in 1990, a few months later in the same year. "Lawn Boy" marked a significant step for the band, showcasing their evolving sound and a more refined approach to songwriting, blending elements of rock, jazz, and improvisational jam. During this live performance, fans witnessed an energetic setlist that included songs such as "David Bowie," which became a staple in their repertoire. Notably, 1990 was also the year that Phish began to build their reputation for memorable live performances, attracting a dedicated following and solidifying their place in the jam band scene. The combination of their unique sound and dynamic live shows helped set the stage for their future success.

Phish Full Concert at UMass Student Union Ballroom - Remastered

Student Union Ballroom, University of Massachusetts
Amherst, Massachusetts, United States

• On February 17, 1990, Phish performed at the UMass Student Union Ballroom during a pivotal time in their early career. This concert took place shortly... Read Full Description >

  On February 17, 1990, Phish performed at the UMass Student Union Ballroom during a pivotal time in their early career. This concert took place shortly after the release of their album *Lawn Boy*, which was released in 1990 and helped establish their blend of rock, jazz, and improvisational music. By this point, Phish was gaining popularity within the college circuit and was known for their energetic live performances and extensive setlists. The recording captures the band in a formative stage, showcasing not only their technical prowess and unique style but also the strong connection they had with their audience, which would later be a defining characteristic of their shows. The remastered footage released years later adds to the historical significance of this performance, as it highlights the band’s early days before they would achieve widespread fame in the 1990s.

Phish Full Concert - 1990 at Student Union Ballroom, UMass, Amherst

Student Union Ballroom, University of Massachusetts
Amherst, Massachusetts, United States

• On February 17, 1990, Phish performed at the Student Union Ballroom at the University of Massachusetts, a venue significant for fostering the band's e... Read Full Description >

  On February 17, 1990, Phish performed at the Student Union Ballroom at the University of Massachusetts, a venue significant for fostering the band's early college scene following their formation in 1983. At this time, Phish was actively developing their distinctive sound and performance style, yet they had not yet released their landmark albums that would later define their career. Prior to this recording, they released their self-titled debut album in 1989. The live performance featured songs that frequently became staples in their repertoire, like "Possum" and "Bathtub Gin." This era marked a period of intense touring, with Phish honing their improvisational skills and expanding their fan base. Notably, this concert predates their follow-up studio album, "Lawn Boy," released later in 1990, which solidified their presence in the jam band scene. This performance is an example of their energetic and eclectic live shows that would come to define their legacy.

Phish Live Performance of 'Rift' (Slow) at The Strand Theater in Dorchester, MA

The Strand Theater
Boston, Massachusetts, United States

• On April 28, 1990, during a concert at The Strand Theater in Dorchester, MA, Phish was in the midst of a dynamic phase in their career. This performan... Read Full Description >

  On April 28, 1990, during a concert at The Strand Theater in Dorchester, MA, Phish was in the midst of a dynamic phase in their career. This performance of "Rift," a song that would later be featured on their studio album of the same name, coincided with their evolving sound and growing fanbase. The "Rift" album was released later in 1993, following the band's previous studio effort, " Junta," which had established them as a prominent force in the jam band scene. Notably, the early '90s marked a transitional period for Phish as they began to write more intricate compositions and shift their live performances' focus toward an increasingly sophisticated blend of rock, jazz, and improvisational styles. This particular recording captures one of the last slow versions of "Rift," highlighting the band's willingness to experiment with song arrangements and their dedication to live improvisation even before the studio release.

Phish - Bouncing Around the Room Live at Woodbury Ski & Raquet Club

Woodbury Ski Area
Woodbury, Connecticut, United States

• In 1990, Phish was on the rise in their career, having just released their second studio album, *Lawn Boy*, which came out in 1990, shortly before the... Read Full Description >

  In 1990, Phish was on the rise in their career, having just released their second studio album, *Lawn Boy*, which came out in 1990, shortly before the live recording of "Bouncing Around the Room" on April 29. This period marked a significant phase for the band as they began to cultivate their unique blend of rock, jazz, and improvisational music, drawing a dedicated fan base. The live recording at the Woodbury Ski & Racquet Club showcases not only the early energy and eclectic sound that the band was known for but also their commitment to live performance, which would become a hallmark of their career. Interestingly, "Bouncing Around the Room" would later appear on their 1996 album, *Billy Breathes*, indicating its importance in their live repertoire and its evolution as a staple in their concerts. The performance at this intimate venue reflects the grassroots appeal of Phish and foreshadows their explosive growth in the live music scene.

Phish Full Concert - Live Performance from Woodbury Ski Area

Woodbury Ski Area
Woodbury, Connecticut, United States

• On April 29, 1990, Phish was in the midst of their early career, shortly after the release of their third studio album, "Lawn Boy," which came out in ... Read Full Description >

  On April 29, 1990, Phish was in the midst of their early career, shortly after the release of their third studio album, "Lawn Boy," which came out in 1990. This live recording from the Woodbury Ski Area captures the band during a moment of burgeoning creativity and experimentation, demonstrating their distinctive blend of genres, particularly through their unique take on covers such as "Ya Mar" and "Uncle Pen." At this stage, Phish was gaining a dedicated fanbase, known for their improvisational prowess and lengthy jams, which is reflected in songs like "You Enjoy Myself" and "Fluffhead." This performance exemplifies the band's energetic live shows and hints at the iconic status they would achieve in the jam band scene. The fact that they performed at a ski area adds to the charm of this early concert, showcasing their grassroots approach to touring and connecting with fans.

Phish Full Concert at Woodbury Ski and Racquet Club

Woodbury Ski Area
Woodbury, Connecticut, United States

Phish - Live Performance of 'Uncle Pen' at Woodbury Ski & Racquet Club

Woodbury Ski Area
Woodbury, Connecticut, United States

• In April 1990, when Phish performed "Uncle Pen" at the Woodbury Ski & Raquet Club, they were in the early stages of their career, having just released... Read Full Description >

  In April 1990, when Phish performed "Uncle Pen" at the Woodbury Ski & Raquet Club, they were in the early stages of their career, having just released their sophomore studio album, "Lawn Boy," in 1990. This album marked a significant step in the band's evolution, showcasing their unique blend of rock, jazz, bluegrass, and progressive music. "Lawn Boy" included fan favorites like "Bathtub Gin" and "Lizards," but it was during live performances, like the one captured in the "Live and Outdoors - Phish" VHS, that the band really began to develop their improvisational prowess, which would become a hallmark of their live shows. This period was crucial, as Phish was establishing a dedicated fan base and honing their craft, setting the foundation for their future as an influential jam band. The choice to perform "Uncle Pen," a Bill Monroe cover, reflects their appreciation for bluegrass roots, further illustrating their eclectic musical influences.

Phish - Performance of 'Walk Away' at Woodbury Ski & Racquet Club

Woodbury Ski Area
Woodbury, Connecticut, United States

• In April 1990, when Phish performed their cover of "Walk Away" by the James Gang at the Woodbury Ski & Racquet Club, they were in a pivotal stage of t... Read Full Description >

  In April 1990, when Phish performed their cover of "Walk Away" by the James Gang at the Woodbury Ski & Racquet Club, they were in a pivotal stage of their career. This performance occurred shortly after the release of their second studio album, "Lawn Boy," which came out in 1990 and showcased their evolving sound characterized by a blend of improvisational rock and diverse musical styles. Phish's live concerts around this time were marked by their unique ability to seamlessly blend covers and original material, demonstrating their influences while simultaneously building a distinct identity within the jam band scene. Notably, their performances in the early 90s helped cultivate a dedicated fan base and set the stage for their future success, as they began to establish themselves as a prominent force in live music, drawing crowds eager for expansive, adventurous musical experiences.

Phish Full Concert: 05/13/1990 at The Front, Burlington, VT

The Front
Burlington, Vermont, United States

• On May 13, 1990, Phish performed a live set at The Front in Burlington, Vermont, during a pivotal period in their career. This concert came shortly af... Read Full Description >

  On May 13, 1990, Phish performed a live set at The Front in Burlington, Vermont, during a pivotal period in their career. This concert came shortly after the release of their second studio album, "Lawn Boy," which was released in 1990 and marked a significant step forward for the band in terms of songwriting and musical exploration. "Lawn Boy" featured fan favorites such as "Bathtub Gin" and "Hello My Baby," showcasing the band's unique blend of rock, jazz, and improvisational elements. By this time, Phish was gaining traction in the American music scene, particularly within the jam band community, and their live performances were becoming increasingly complex and adventurous. The 1990 concert captures the band at a moment when they were honing their signature sound and solidifying their connection with audiences, laying the groundwork for future successes and lengthy improvisational jams that would define their career.

Phish - Full Concert at The Music Hall, Portsmouth, NH featuring Rift and more

St. Paul's School
Concord, New Hampshire, United States

• In the recording from The Music Hall in Portsmouth, NH, on May 19, 1990, Phish was in a formative stage of their career, having just released their se... Read Full Description >

  In the recording from The Music Hall in Portsmouth, NH, on May 19, 1990, Phish was in a formative stage of their career, having just released their self-titled debut album in 1991. Prior to this recording, their repertoire included songs that would later appear on their upcoming studio album, "Junta," which showcased their unique blend of rock, jazz, and improvisational styles. Notably, the live performance captured a vital moment in their evolution as a live band, underlining their ability to engage audiences with intricate compositions and extended jams. During this period, Phish was beginning to build a strong following, setting the stage for their future as a major force in the jam band scene. The 1990 concert exemplifies their early experimentation and passion that would ultimately define their distinctive sound.

Phish - Tweezer Live Performance at Club Bene, South Amboy, NJ

Club Bene
South Amboy, New Jersey, United States

Phish - Foam Live Performance from Armstrong Hall, Colorado Springs

Armstrong Hall
Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States

• On October 31, 1990, Phish performed at Armstrong Hall in Colorado Springs, a show notable for its energy and improvisational excellence, characterist... Read Full Description >

  On October 31, 1990, Phish performed at Armstrong Hall in Colorado Springs, a show notable for its energy and improvisational excellence, characteristic of the band's early career. By this time, Phish had released two studio albums: their self-titled debut "Phish" in 1989, and "Lawn Boy," released earlier in 1990. The live recording captures the band during a pivotal period when they were solidifying their reputation as a live act. Their unique blend of rock, jazz, and improvisation was beginning to attract a dedicated fanbase. Notably, the Halloween performance tradition was established around this time, leading to unique thematic shows in future years. This performance is also significant as it showcases their signature song "Foam," exemplifying their intricate compositions and tight musicianship, which would only further develop in subsequent years as they expanded their live repertoire and became known for their elaborate shows.

Phish Concert Performance: 'Possum' and 'Buried Alive' at University of Colorado, Boulder

Glenn Miller Ballroom
Boulder, Colorado, United States

• In November 1990, when Phish performed at the University of Colorado in Boulder, they were still in the early stages of their career, having released ... Read Full Description >

  In November 1990, when Phish performed at the University of Colorado in Boulder, they were still in the early stages of their career, having released their debut studio album, "Junta," in 1989. At this time, Phish was gaining a reputation for their unique blend of rock, jazz, and improvisational styles, which would become their hallmark. This live recording showcases their energetic performance and tight musicianship, elements that helped establish their cult following. By 1990, the band was actively touring to promote their live presence, which played a crucial role in shaping their identity and fanbase. The selection of songs in this performance reflects their early repertoire, characterized by eclectic compositions and dynamic transitions. This concert would contribute to the band's growth as they moved toward the release of their second studio album, "Lawn Boy," in 1990, which further solidified their place in the jam band scene.

Phish Concert Performance of 'David Bowie' at Glenn Miller Ballroom

Glenn Miller Ballroom
Boulder, Colorado, United States

• On November 2, 1990, when Phish performed "David Bowie" at the Glenn Miller Ballroom in Boulder, Colorado, the band was in the midst of their early ca... Read Full Description >

  On November 2, 1990, when Phish performed "David Bowie" at the Glenn Miller Ballroom in Boulder, Colorado, the band was in the midst of their early career, having released their album "Lawn Boy" earlier that year, in 1990. "Lawn Boy" showcased the band's eclectic musical style and laid the groundwork for their evolving sound. This live performance is notable not just for the song's intricate composition and improvisational elements, but also for how it captures the band's growing confidence and stage presence during this formative period. Additionally, the Boulder show occurred mere months after Phish's debut at the famed venue, which had become a regular stop for the group. This performance and the broader tour in which it occurred helped to solidify Phish's reputation as a captivating live act, setting the stage for their future success as masters of live improvisation.

Phish Full Concert - 1990-12-08 The Chance, Poughkeepsie, NY

The Chance
Poughkeepsie, New York, United States

Phish Performing 'Divided Sky' - Soundboard Recording from The Marquee, NYC

The Marquee
New York, New York, United States

• On December 28, 1990, Phish performed at The Marquee in New York City, showcasing their dynamic sound and intricate compositions during a pivotal time... Read Full Description >

  On December 28, 1990, Phish performed at The Marquee in New York City, showcasing their dynamic sound and intricate compositions during a pivotal time in their career. This concert occurred shortly after the release of their third studio album, "Lawn Boy," which came out in 1990 and marked a significant step in their artistic evolution. The album featured fan-favorite tracks like "Squirming Coil" and "Sample in a Jar," underscoring the band's distinctive blend of rock, jazz, and improvisational elements. The live recording of "Divided Sky" from this show illustrates the band's evolving prowess, characterized by long improvisational passages and intricate harmonies. Notably, this time in their career was marked by increasing recognition and a growing fanbase, enhancing Phish's reputation for exceptional live performances that would define their legacy.