This is a stellar show, top-to-bottom, and certainly should be in the running for best of tour (along with, to these ears at least, Deer Creek 1, Hershey 2, Gorge 2, and Shoreline 2). Gin is deserving of special mention for closing the first set in especially fine style. However, the completely unexpected highlight of the set if not the entire show is a way, way, out-there Sigma Oasis.
Then there’s the second set. SYSF in some ways follows the excellent example of ER from the night before, and as with its predecessor is likely one of the best versions to date. The segue to Lonely Trip which follows is surprising but is also perhaps even more emotionally poignant as a result. It just works.
A Catapult-infused machine jam sandwiched between high-energy takes on Simple and Meatstick then leads to a totally unhinged Ruby Waves. Like Lonely Trip, though, the subsequent Bliss segue to Billy Breathes fits and flows. Not to be outdone, a set-ending Hood that is concise yet powerful comes screaming to its rightful end.
Still, there are more high points to cover: Sand, Reba. All in all, with a different selection of songs this show might not have sounded out of place in Spring or Summer 1994. The energy, song placement, and execution seem similar, if not exactly alike. It’s a gem for sure and bodes well for Fall. Onward!