Phish
Hoist

There is room for one album review this month, and I've chosen to take a look at the new album from Phish. I had heard a lot of negativity about this album due to the band's decision to record this one entirely in the studio, and perform the songs only upon the album's release. Well, on first listen, I agreed with the criticisms I was hearing. This isn't Phish!!!

However, if that is your feeling, I strongly urge you to give this one a second listen! Yes the album is very heavy on production, but what else can you expect from Paul Fox who has worked on several albums with studio wizards XTC. The songs on this album really are outstanding and hold up very strongly in concert!

Mike Gordon's bass is given a real funky work out on the radio hit Down with Disease. No, I'm not happy that this band has finally hit the radio. After all, I'd like the band to remain a well-kept secret for rather selfish reasons (such as the wonderfully small venues they have been able to play). However, let's face it, this is a talented band that deserves its success!

Other standouts on the album are the catchy Sample in a Jar and Wolfman's Brother, the beautiful If I Could, and the killer jam Demand.

No, this isn't quite as Phish albums have been in the past, but if you enjoy the band's music, this one is a must! Give it a chance -- I'll bet it grows on you! 

1 Star:   Pitiful
2 Stars: Listenable
3 Stars: Respectable
4 Stars: Excellent
5 Stars: Can't Live Without It!!