Do I deserve to review this show even though I wasn't there? Maybe not, but I love this show very much, and that must count for something. I think the first 2 songs of the show are some of my most listened to Phish songs. The first 2 alone!

I don't think I'm alone in stating that this Tweezer is just top shelf. It's so patient and textured. Trey shines of course. I dig it so much I even learned this solo from where his lead starts up to where he starts he starts hosing. It is quite a brilliant solo. Page is playing perfect textural counterpoint. This Tweezer holds up really well over time. I'd chose it to play for a non Phish fan.

The Reba is damn fine as well. Of course the Ghost is probably legendary at this point.

2nd set is killer too. The YEM has maybe my favorite vocal jam. Very subdued and melodic.

But here is what I wonder about years later. Where did that music come from? How did things line up in Fall 97 to get show after show that just kills? I read somewhere that Phish actually listened to this show on the tour bus. They liked it so much they replayed it to themselves. Not something they did very often or at all. They somehow influenced themselves. They must have knew they had struck gold and they proceeded to wring every last drop from this discovery.

Of course I dream that Phish will find that magic like they did at certain points in their career and go on a tear like they did in Fall 97, or late 93 or 95, or the Island Tour. Even in middle age and sober Phish is still one of the best bands that ever lived but when they really hit their stride, at times they really rise above and play music at the highest level. Dare I say a spiritual plane. This show has got it fer sure. About 10 minutes into Ghost you'll know what I mean.