Vintage Fresh Phish 1994

Formed at the University of Vermont in 1983 Phish emerged by the 1990’s as the most popular of a new generation of Jam Bands. Often compared to the Grateful Dead for their improvisational concert style and a fervent fan base that followed them across the country, they mixed rock, folk, jazz and funk into a sound that was ever-changing until their 2004 break-up. Five years later they’ve reunited for a triumphant reunion tour and a brand new album Joy.

Their album Hoist had just been released when they visited me on April 13, 1994 for a lunchtime in-studio mini-concert and interview. Trey Anastasio, Page McConnell, Mike Gordon and Jon Fishman were in good spirits as they prepared for their first ever show at New York’s Beacon Theatre that night. Trey (who does most of the talking) explores the band’s history, his recently broken foot, the possibility of a Snapple commercial and more in this memorable clip.