Listen to Episode 9

Continuing with our retrospective theme of the last few episodes, we have dedicated Episode 9 to the amazing music and stage antics that took place in December, 1995. Scotty opens by setting the historical context of this highly experimental month, laying the foundation for Tanya, Sam Steve and Scotty to share conversations about specific instances of musical and theatrical innovations that characterize the concluding month of the monster Fall Tour of 1995. The lead clip is Mike’s Song from Hershey, PA 12/1/95. Key points begin with audience participation, which was taken to the next level in ’95. To appreciate the unique relationship between Phish and their audience, 2 clips from the “Dog Log” show of 12/11/95 are played. Then Sam and Scotty engage in a spirited debate over the way Free was played at this time. Sam explains exactly what Trey is doing to create the whooshing sound heard in 2 different Free jams that are shared. This takes us to Scotty’s enthusiastic account of the awe-inspiring performance of You Enjoy Myself from Albany 12/9/95. He plays 2 clips to illustrate what an incredibly cohesive yet exploratory version of YEM went down at the Knick that night. Two more atypical versions of songs are also discussed and shared with clips: Tweezer > Slipknot! and Keyboard Cavalry, both from 12/14/95 (which became Live Phish 1). We wrap up with a final discussion of additional noteworthy moments, and take it out with the Bass Duet > La Grange from 12/29/95. It was certainly a December to Remember!