The legendary jam band Phish once again proved why they are the undisputed kings of live improvisational music with their electrifying performance at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield, MA, last night. The band, currently on their Summer Tour 2024, delivered a set that had the crowd dancing, singing, and basking in the pure joy that only a Phish show can bring.
The evening kicked off with a bang as the band launched into the high-energy "Buried Alive." The opener seamlessly transitioned into "Character Zero," setting the tone for a night filled with intricate jams and dynamic interplay. "Hey Stranger," a Trey Anastasio solo piece, added a fresh touch to the set, showcasing Trey’s poignant songwriting.
The crowd went wild as the familiar opening notes of "Down With Disease" echoed through the venue. This Phish staple was stretched out into a blissful jam, exploring new musical landscapes. "Roggae" provided a mellow, dreamy interlude, flowing effortlessly into the groove-heavy "NICU."
"Stash" was a standout, with its dark, complex rhythms and exploratory jams that had fans hanging on every note. The first set closed with a fiery rendition of "46 Days," leaving the audience eagerly anticipating what was to come in the second half.
Set two kicked off with the playful and funky "Suzy Greenberg," which smoothly transitioned into the fan-favorite "Run Like an Antelope." The energy was palpable as the band embarked on a journey through a series of segues, starting with a spooky and expansive "Ghost" that melted into the uplifting "Light."
The new tune "Pillow Jets" made its debut, offering a fresh sonic experience that was both ethereal and powerful. This flowed beautifully into "Beneath a Sea of Stars Part 1," another gem from Trey's solo repertoire, which provided a serene and contemplative moment in the set.
The second set reached its peak with a mind-bending "Split Open and Melt." The band’s ability to deconstruct and rebuild the song in real-time was a testament to their unmatched improvisational skills.
As the band returned for the encore, the opening notes of "Harry Hood" elicited a roar of approval from the crowd. This version was a perfect closer, with its uplifting melody and jubilant climax, leaving everyone with a sense of euphoria and gratitude.
Phish's performance at the Xfinity Center was a masterclass in live music. The seamless transitions, exploratory jams, and perfect song selection showcased the band at the height of their powers. Each member brought their A-game, from Trey's intricate guitar work and Mike Gordon’s thumping bass lines to Page McConnell’s melodic keys and Jon Fishman’s dynamic drumming. It was a night that reminded us all why Phish continues to be a cornerstone of the live music scene, creating unforgettable experiences for their devoted fans.
If you missed this show, make sure to catch them tonight or tomorrow in Massachusetts or on the remaining dates of their Summer Tour 2024. It’s a journey you won’t want to miss.
