I'm writing a review of this show through the rearview mirror.
Leading up to this night, I was pumped that there would be another amazing bust out cover album. Especially since this was my first Phish Halloween. I flew into Philly from Denver and met up with my good friends, both came from Denver as well but a day or two earlier. We hit the road from the airport, crushed ourselves in Reading, and then headed to AC.
Upon receiving the Wingsuit handbill, my first reaction was laughter. They band had finally pulled the biggest musical gag of their time; "covering" a future Phish album. To me, this was amazing. The show was a blast, and while some of the debuts needed some fine tuning, they were overall solid. Waiting All Night and Fuego stand out in my memory.
I also see this as yet another step the band has taken towards taking things where they want them to go, and not being so influenced by what they think the masses want to hear. Sure, they still play to what we love, but I think at this point in 3.0 they are also taking things into more uncharted territory with a high level of confidence and showmanship. Listed to some of summer '15 and I think you will agree.
The other huge thing to me about this show is that is was my last show with my good friend. He passed away less than a month after this night, and it was devastating and hard to think that he wouldn't be the big gentle giant with my crew and I when tour picked up again. Shit, typing this brings back so many fond memories of this night. Hitting the casino afterwards, partying into the night, and then me catching a train back to Philly in the wee hours of the morning.
The show was amazing, but the memories it left me with of my great friend are even more powerful.
Thank you Phish for keeping these memories present!