Roller Coaster Rides of Energy

The ebb and flow of energy at Phish shows is palpable. As the tide turns, you feel the shift, both physically and emotionally. 

Sometimes, it's apparent in the euphoria that, beginning at the pit of your stomach, rises to the back of your throat, and, other times, it's in the goose pimples sprouting on your arms.

The venue itself seems to react, as well. (This is more apparent indoors than outdoors.) At moments of tranquility, it has an air of calm. At moments of dynamism, it pulsates.

We pinpoint these different energies immediately, often with a wave of cheerful applause, expressing gratitude to the band for succeeding in altering our mindsets -- until, of course, the next new aura takes hold. 

Now, before I present two examples, let me first offer a quick caveat: I am a 3.0 baby, my first show being in 2009 at Boston's Fenway Park. Thus, I am positive that there are better, more notable changes in mood that have occurred than the ones I will present.

I only wish I could have witnessed them. 

June 17, 2010/Comcast Center, Hartford, Ct./"Walk Away"

This version of The James Gang's only top 40 hit was just the third of its kind in 3.0. Already invigorated by an exceptional "Esther," the crowd used Trey's energetic solo as rocket fuel. It floated in space for much of "The Divided Sky," eventually coming to a peaceful landing during "When the Circus Comes to Town."

December 31, 2011/ Madison Square Garden/ "46 Days"

(Song begins at 5:45)

New Year's Eve's second set was getting better and better when, as "Sneakin' Sally Through the Alley" came to a leisurely close, Trey began the opening section of "46 Days." As the song tore on, it brought both band and crowd together as one big kinetic family. Simply listen to the wild applause that followed, and you'll discern the impact of this forceful version.