https://forum.phish.net/forum/permalink/1377777209

If the history of Phish was to mirror the History of Western Civilization, then the years of 1989-1990 could represent the Dark Ages. For all the events that occurred during that time, there is missing and incomplete documentation, causing us to resort to legends and folklore to fill in the gaps. 4/22/90, then, might represent the Magna Carta of Phish, providing a remarkably clear, detailed, and informative view into this past world (to extend the analogy, 10/31-11/4/90 could be the Canterbury Tales of Phish).

The circulating recording may be the very first multi-track SBD of a Phish show. I had previously thought that Mike Lynch, the forward-thinking fellow who recorded the band in Telluride in 1988, had also recorded this show, but I was mistaken. However, Mike Grace, who recorded the circulating soundboards from Colorado shows in Fall 1990 and Spring 1991, might also deserve credit for this multi-track SBD recording. It takes a few songs for the mix to get dialed in, but the extra recording tracks allow for stereo panning of Fishman's drums that is most effective on the Divided Sky opener and a swinging How High The Moon. It's a great recording for anyone who wants to check out how Fishman's playing sounded back in the day.

I like @DemandOpener's review of this show above, and I would be remiss if I didn't mention @OrangeSox's excellent overview of Earth Day performances by Phish, which provides a nice background on this show, as well as a few more pictures. For me, this show feels like standing right in front of the stage, on a pleasant spring afternoon, letting the music of Phish wash right over you. The second set is heavenly; this version of Esther may well be the best they ever played, and Harry Hood will bring you to your knees in exultation. And I'm not 100% sure, but I think the melody Trey teasing in BBFCFM might be the Colorado College Alma Mater - anyone recognize that tune?