I thought this was a solid review. I have been seeing them since 96 and have seen three really good shows during 3.0. 11/24/09, 6/27/10 the Saw It Again show, which was maybe the best second set I have seen since the 90's, and this summer MPP night 2. Since I only get to one or two shows a year now, I rely on reviews and comments to help me out with the rest of the tour. I actually agree with the reviewer here about the band cutting the jams off. Of course, those of us who saw them regularly in the "golden age" should not expect a 25 minute Tweezer or even one of those bizzare Jibboos from 99-00, but if you are at the show, you have to be honest with yourself and what you feel when Trey cuts Hood off at the 8 minute mark to go into Number Line towards the end of the second set (see...MPP night 2). Still, the shows I have seen have been great. The band is playing better than ever and their tunes are crisp. The type 1 jams are always tight and organized. I have witnessed a fantastic first set (11/24/09), some intense exploration into the abyss (Saw It Again set), and an inspired mid-late first set (MPP night 2 with a stellar Wolfman's-Zero run). nicobert is right on with his comment. Phish always had a majority of their songs that were straight up. I think this reviewer is right on with the term "first set creep." I love that. It's true. Of course there is a place for new music and I really like nearly all the new stuff, but I have found that in the shows I have seen, and the setlists I have read, Trey has tried to force slower tunes into the second set, when it has the potential to be rage time.

My one gripe with the reviewer is that he was not there. There are enough fans that are good enough writers that could provide this site with a review from the venue. It does make a difference and adds the appropriate perspective. Being mostly on the couch tour myself, I know I am truly missing a major part of it and would love to have that conveyed in writing by someone that was there.

Also, newer fans need to relax and stop being so defensive. People who have seen shows for 15-20 years are allowed to critique and add their opinions about the direction, style, and setlists. This is not hate. We all love this band and we would not be on this site if we didn't. The band is still excellent and we appreciate them for what they do. After the misguided return from the first hiatus, it seems like the 5 years off really did them well. They look healthy, happy, and engaged in the music. We are lucky to have them back. Oh, and sorry noobs, it is true...96-98 is the BEST shit ever and will never be topped. Just the facts.

MDosque