The Boys are back and all is right in the world

As if they were giving the phamily a chance to reproduce and let the offspring grow dancing lega, the Phish are back with a vengence just in time for Abbey to experience them. Of course, this wouldn't mean much if they were just going through the motions. So far the shows have ranged from good to excellent. Their play is tight and the jams have really gotten strong in the first NE leg of the summer tour.

Life is different under Phish 3.0, but change is just part of life. The band has grown up. They reportedly sober. They are playing tighter. The tour seems designed to shake-off raod warriors, i.e. it is not very easy to follow. Some shows have had multi-department federal drug enforement.

The best thing is how technology has changed. There are reports of people streaming shows live on their cell phones for a fee. These efforts are underground since they violates phish's taping policy. Others have been making recordings available immediately after each show without any information about the show so you can listen at home without preconception of what you hear. check it out here: http://phishthoughts.com/nospoilers/ . And head over to the main blog for Mr Miner's thoughts.

For me, the main lesson from the reunions so far: always listen withoout preconception ... when you can. I had forgotten how Phish can turn a random song into something epic. Perhaps that is the benefit of a rest - the energy is there to do that. And though I am sure I wil be hoping for Antelope at the Gorge this summer, I will try to remember that any song could blow the doors off.

For some examples, check out 6/7/09 show or the second set of 6/2/09. Yes, awesomeness is now available in bulk.

Speaking of the Gorge this summer, I am starting to work on the family's scene for the show. Camping at the Gorge is always an undertaking... and bringing Abigail is going to add to that. But right now I am thinking outfits. We are a family now and that gives us an opportunity to show it. My first idea was disco dolphins. Andrea had this picture of this little girl riding a dolphin that see loved. I thought we could be the (Disco) dolphins and Abbey could be the little girl. Done right could be pretty trippy. Like this:

http://www.costumesontheweb.com/costumes/dolphin_nose_rubber_m212b.html

With a sequin cape and some funny t-shirts.

Well, I was brainstorming and it paid off. Andrea thought we could just be Bootsie's (abbey) entourage. For effect, details will be kept underwraps. Let's just say Bootsie is gonna get a funk makeover. stay tuned for details.