For this Friday’s playlist, we rewind to the often-debated “post-hiatus” era. Regardless of what side of that fence you come down on, I’m sure all can appreciate these gems from 2003. Featuring a grittier, uncompressed guitar tone and uncompromising dives into experimental and psychedelic playing, Phish took things deep during their second go-round. While some jams wound up more focused than others, I hope these selections can be appreciated by fans of any era. Enjoy the distinct, “post-hiatus” sound on this winter weekend! And check out the book offer below.
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“Walls of the Cave -> Carini” 2.14.03 II, LA, CA
This monstrous jam emerged on the first night of winter tour ’03, restoring some faith after a less-than-impressive comeback run at MSG and Hampton.
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“Wolfman’s -> Scents and Subtle Sounds” 7.7.03 II, Phx, AZ
This gooey “Wolfman’s” jam merged with the debut of “Scents” in the desert on the opening night of Summer ’03.
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“Stash” 12.31.03 II, Miami, FL
The defining jam of the first New Year’s Run in Miami.
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“Seven Below” 7.13.03 II, Quincy, WA
A harrowing exploration that I missed for a high school friend’s wedding. The wedding sucked and I haven’t seen the guy since. Fail.
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“Split -> Free” 7.22.03 II, Noblesville, IN
The centerpiece of night two in Deer Creek, and probably the most lasting piece of the run.
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“Twist -> Simple” 11.29.03 II, Philadelphia, PA II
This jam provided one of few highlights of a rather uninspired Thanksgiving run.
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“Ya Mar” 8.2.03 II, Limestone, ME
What’s happened to the occasional “Ya Mar” jam? Some, like this one from IT, used to go deep.
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“Suzy Greenberg” 12.28.03 II, Miami, FL
Phish oozes out of “Suzy” into seething jam that centers on a darkly-spiritual guitar showcase by Trey.
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“Harry Hood” 7.25.03 II, Charlotte, NC
Just when Phish was beginning to break down improvisational barriers with “Harry Hood” (see Camden ’03 also), they called in quits in ’04.
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Get a Signed Book Now!
In case you haven’t heard via Twitter or Facebook, we are currently in a 72-hour window in which you can order “The Book” and have it signed as well as inscribed with a Phish lyric. You get to choose the song. I get to choose the lyric. This offer remains open for any orders placed by Saturday night at 8 pm Pacific. Please leave a “note” in your PayPal order telling me your choice of song! If you forget to do that, you can email me at mrminer@phishthoughts.com, but the other way works far smoother. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, get a book inscribed to your significant other with a lyric that means something in your life! It will last far longer than chocolate and roses! Just an idea…
