In a review of Dick’s 3 I said that show should be in the running for best of tour. I stand by this thought but would now slightly amend the list of other shows. Since it is not possible to edit reviews after posting, here is the revised Top 5 shows of Summer Tour 2021, in chronological order: Alpharetta 1, Deer Creek 1, Hershey 2, Shoreline 2, and Dick’s 3. Now, on to a review of this show.

The first set begins with a 1-2 punch, as a big rock version of Sand is followed by an ER that serves fair warning the band means business. A mellow jam dissolves into alien goo, out of which emerges a lovely soaring peak. Later, there is a second interesting pairing when Foam comes close on the heels of Destiny Unbound.

Maze and Stash both feature classic first set jams. While Trey builds a noteworthy solo in Maze, it is Stash that really showcases how well the band is playing their older compositions. The set concludes after a short but sweet and spicy Gin is put through its paces.

Chalk Dust launches the second set into outer space on the back of a Fish beat that just won’t quit. Having achieved weightlessness, Steam drifts down to Earth before Caspian catches a monster wave and rides it back to shore. Listen once, then listen again: these three songs are some of Phish at their best.

Golgi and AC/DC keep the party going before Shade cools things down for a few minutes. The Mike’s Song that follows is on the brief side, but features some excellent interplay between Page and Trey, as well as the concluding section that usually leads into Hydrogen. Except, in this case, a joyful Silent in the Morning gives way to Weekapaug, which takes another Fish boogie beat out for a ride before bringing the second set curtain down. The band then returns to send folks home with a soulful Life Beyond the Dream and a rocking Cavern.