This entry contains legacy content from the earler Phish.net's FAQ file and/or from earlier editions of The Phish Companion. It may be incomplete and/or out-of-date, but we hope to update it soon.

    The legendary Colonel Bruce Hampton founded The Aquarium Rescue Unit in the early 1990s. The band would receive acclaim in jamband circles throughout the first half of the decade before disbanding to allow its members to pursue other interests, including such offshoots as Frogwings, Jazz is Dead, and Colonel Bruce Hampton’s various musical projects.
    While the ARU was developing a loyal fan base in the southeast, Phish found themselves attempting to gain ground in the area. The bands entered into a symbiotic relationship, sharing bills around the country. ARU allowed Phish to open for them in the South and spread their music to new audiences; Phish returned the favor by allowing ARU to open in the Northeast. And, of course, the two bands would be integral parts of the first H.O.R.D.E. tour. Phish’s affinity for the Colonel Bruce and his ARU has been documented in multiple places. For a fun example on disc, pick up 5/2/92. ARU opened for Phish that night, and Trey referenced them (and chided them) during a hysterical “Icculus,” going so far as to remark jokingly that the ARU had been a “feeble bluegrass band” until they read the Helping Friendly Book. Lest Trey’s comments be taken seriously, remember that he has commented that the ARU’s sound was a distinct influence on his writing the song “Llama.”
    While individual members of ARU have joined Phish on stage, twice did the two bands get together and jam at once. The first, on 11/7/91 (featuring such songs as “David Bowie”), is not as widely circulated or as memorable as the second. On 5/5/93, to cap an already stellar show, Phish welcomed the ARU during a long “You Enjoy Myself.” The resulting jam is one of the most exploratory pieces of music Phish has ever performed.