I think I remember having a TERRIBLE copy of this show back in the early 90's. So bad that I rarely listened to it. So, although the source that I listened isn't fantastic, it is way better than what I remember, and thus makes for a much more enjoyable listen. There seems to be a lot cut out of the show. But, off the bat, Phish is clearly having fun. I love the stage antics of the early days.

Show starts with Shaggy Dog, and develops a fun, infectious jam. Take the 'A' Train is pretty standard, with a huge London Bridge / Yankee Doodle tease. Fee is par for the course. The Bold As Love SHINES! The ending is a must hear. The Bold As Love from 10/29/88 (which I used to have labeled as 10/31/88, but I now see was a mashup of 10/29/88 and 11/5/88, my 15th birthday!) was my favorite for early effects, but I think 9/12/88 takes the cake.

The second set has a stand out Timber, followed by a mellow Satin Doll. The Lizards is as always fantastic. The song that got me into Phish. TMWSIY > Avenu Malkenu > TMWSIY contained a "happy new year" wish from Mike. It was Rosh Hashanah that night I believe. Strangest of coincidences, I listened to this show again on 9/16/2012, the first night of Rosh Hashanah. Bundle of Joy is great to hear outside of Fluffhead, and the Camel Walk is hilarious. They each shout their part, "STRUT," "YOUR," "STUFF!" The Practical Song is more Phish antics. The Hood is a bit different. Give it a listen, you'll like it. The Esther, if no other reason, is why you should hear this show. It is the first known performance, has completely different lyrics, and ends much differently. I much prefer their reworked version. Much, much darker.

Fun early Phish show. I miss listening to 80's Phish!