Fall Tour 200 review comments

review submisions to me at dws@netspace.org or dws@gadiel.com

Date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000 22:41:16 EDT
From: Andywren1@aol.com
To: dws@netspace.org
Subject: hey
 
i like phish

Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 13:42:33 EDT From: Bkphourty@aol.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: lets do somethign about the scene hello phamily, i just finished reading a bunch of the reviews on the summer and fall tour. i attended a few shows on each tour and i must say that i am glad the boys r taking a break. hopefully hopefully this will get all the little rats that r there for the wrong reason off the bandwagon. i am very glad to read other reviews that people wrote regarding their disgust of the parts of the scene. granted there are many good parts to the phish scene, there r many people there for the music and to carry on peace. but as we all knwo the scene is gettign otu of hand. gangs, violence, rape, drugs-heroine, K, meth, etc..what the hell people, thsi shit does not belong. unfortunalty the people doing these thigns will never read any of these reviews but hopefully the people that actually care about phish and all that goes with it will do somethign about it. if anyone has any ideas or would like to help or talk about this please email me or some of these other kind soles that share the same views-read other tour comment reviews to find these people. i love phish and want and need to have them keep going, please help. thank u all. peace, ben
Date: Tue, 3 Oct 2000 22:16:17 EDT From: Mtthw38@cs.com To: dws@archive.phish.net Subject: this is all i have to say HELLO ALL, man. this is al i have to say aobut the riverband show. the first set was cool. i enjoyed it alot. and the most killer in the second set was big black fury creatures from mars. hahaha. i was not ready for that. im writing this alttle late..becauae its oct 2nd now. i was just reading over some of the reviews of the shows that i got to go to. i was in maryland cleav, cicy and both nights in rosmont. and i was not going to say anything. but i just cant help it. so here it goes WHO THE HELL ARE U PEOPLE. PHISH IS A GREAT BAND AND HAVE BEEN A GREAT BAND SINCE 1983. on some of the reviews for this show..some of you where bitchin about how muddy it was! what! are u a weather man now? can u or trey forcast the perfect weather for the show. some of u are making it seem like it there fault the lawn was muddy. and you where complaing about how it messed up the show. yea so what it rained. why didnt you prepare of it and bring a rain coat and where your exta shoes. it not the bands fault that it rained. and you know what..ive spoken about this before..but some of you are still throwing it your stupied wishfull setlist. why would you come ot a show..and leave just because u didnt get to here exacty what you heard. your the one out of 30 bucks. and phish still gets the money. so why leave. i forgot that you where in the band and get to play your favorite hits over and over again. and for those who wish that phish would burry some songs. i hope they play all those songs at the next show ....just for you. since when did trey loose his job. since when did the band stop calling the shots, and since when did u take there place. and PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE...STOP TELLING US IF YOU LIKE OR DONT LIKE THE SONG!!! GIVE ME A BREAK! when i read a review. i dont really give a rats ass if like the song or not. nor do any of the other tons of phish kids. we all like different songs. so dont tell us what song u hate as well. but i do have to say this. i enjoyed my trip to cincy. and i hope phish comes back just a strong as they are leaving this tour. they are a really great band. a band where u can see them as people not superstars. (even though they are close to god status) a band where u never know what u will here next a band where they just make u feel good. they seem happy on stage(except when trey has to catch a glowstick during yem, and except when mike has to kick one off his trampline during the same sone like in rosemont) you can always feel the music just buy looking into there eyes. they love it and the love the songs they play...why cant you thankyou mtthw38@cs.com
Date: Mon, 2 Oct 2000 14:37:35 -0400 From: John Tringle John_Tringle@hotmail.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: Kid Crock Please put this anywhere you wish. I want to let everyone know that I was NOT at the show with Kid Rock. I want to let everyone know that I am TOTALLY for free speech and give ANY artist the right to say what they want and do what they want. I wish to censor NO ONE....HOWEVER!!!!: I don't think that the best way to counter the punks showing up to Phish shows lately...is to invite one of the punks UP ON STAGE WITH YOU. Just my two cents. peace jt
Date: Mon, 2 Oct 2000 14:03:26 EDT From: Anfernee25@aol.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: trey's impossible realization wow trey really impressed me on this one "gamehendge is just a state of mind" well genius over hear just realized that everything that we ever encounter in our lives as people, every interaction emotion feeling decision desire sensation is no more than a different state of mind and the funny thing is trey already knew this and even incorporated this message already in his gamehenge rhombus so to go to such a great extent to display this message, especially to such a widebase group of fans as on the internet is incredible. unbelievable. uneccessary, actually kind of scary.
Date: Sat, 30 Sep 2000 22:02:51 -0400 From: Jerry Battaglia troutkayak@home.com To: dws@archive.phish.net Subject: 9-23-00 It's the cranky old man again. A reminder from yesterday, Please stop the yelling and clapping during songs.Just swing, sweat, and smile. Give the appreciation after the songs when the band can actually hear you.
Date: Sat, 30 Sep 2000 21:59:40 -0400 From: jeremy battaglia ienjoyjer@home.com To: dws@archive.phish.net Subject: review 9-22-00 Sometimes I wish the band would quiet down so I can here the screaming crowd a little better. Please excuse my sarcasm, but I'm at a loss. Why do people come to shows and just yell? There's a time for that, BETWEEN SONGS if you have to. During the soft jams or acappella stuff is not the time. Man, that's some of the best parts. The younger legions of glides just don't seem to appreciate it the same. Granted, there are older kids who could use a refresher course in concert edicate. 1. Don't yell continuously during songs 2. Don't clap continously in the middle of jams or right after a phunky transition 3. Don't sing along when it's not at the right time 4. Don't talk loudly I can remeber early shows in which the crowd would actually sshhhhhhhh! to remind people, especially during acapella stuff or soft riffs. Ah the good ole days. Especially these days, when their playing to bigger crowds and larger venues.The beauty of shows is the feeling, the atmosphere, the energy, the freedom. Dance your ass off or simple tap a toe but for God sakes do it with some audio respect for those around you. I know it would be even more orgasmic for the crowd and band if we all just shut up and dance. As long as I'm rambling, do we all really need to jam towards the front to get a better view? I can send you photos of the band. I'm there to listen, and to get down. Let's leave a little elbow swinging room, eh.
Date: Fri, 29 Sep 2000 23:49:45 EDT From: Scahalanroach@aol.com To: dws@netspace.org Subject: (no subject) I was reading the "fall tour 2000 review comments" and I was shocked to learn that people would disrupt (i.e. glowsticks on stage) artistry in motion. I'm sorry, but maybe there should be a minimum age to be admitted to a Phish show, apparently there are far to many immature people out there that do not have a clue.
Date: Tue, 26 Sep 2000 14:51:38 -0500 From: "Yach, Jason" Jason.Yach@plexus.com To: "'dws@gadiel.com'" dws@gadiel.com You know what the truly wonderful thing about phish is? the fact that two different people can get two totally different views on any given show. as evidenced by joy jacobs' and bob hanson's review of Sandstone last night. I think that is incredible and what it is all about. not every show will do to each one of us the same thing. isn't that cool? i'll take phish anyday. everyone else can have dmb, britany spears, hanson...... Jason Yach Cisco Test Technician Plexus-EAC Bldg. 5/FF1 Ext. 4120 Email: Jason.Yach@Plexus.Com
Date: Mon, Sep 25 2000 17:43:38 GMT-0500 From: thedarklord@usinternet.com To: dws@archive.phish.net Subject: Glowsticks complaints Thanks to all the people who emailed me with their complaints about glowstick throwing. I'm glad people are so passionate about this issue. Some of the emails were rather vulgar and extensive. Opinions are just that, and I'm glad we all have them. If you don't want glowsticks to be thrown, then organize, set up a website etc...Some people do throw the glowsticks hard...I lobbed to people around me. Because of the shrooms I was on, I didn't have the capacity to throw far. Why am I making excuses...I'm not, nor do I feel I need to explain my actions. It looked very cool, and most people around me got off on it. Im sorry if it offended anyone...but remember that the show is for all and like society, unpredictable. There are already enough rules we follow just to see our favorite band, need we start imposing rules on ourselves. Do you think Matt Groening gets cash for all the shirts and stickers and the like that are peddled in the parking lots? Just a few thoughts from! me. Again, thanks for all the responces...keep the controversy alive! Peace
Date: Sun, 24 Sep 2000 18:22:34 -0400 From: Stephen L Heestand sheestand@e-mergingtechnologies.com To: dws@archive.phish.net This week-end's shows were great. Do I sense a new box set? The only beef I have is these f@#$ing people who consistently pelt the band with glow-sticks. It literally takes away from my experience when I have to sit there and worry about my favorite band's members, as well as, their equipment getting damaged. Can we all try to resolve this issue by trying to refrain from instigating or contributing to the mayhem? These Allstate shows were some of the best I have ever seen! I just wish people would realize the band/ crew really DOES NOT care for these glowstick wars. In fact....they all probably despise it. Genuinely Concerned, Stephen Lee Cleveland, Ohio
Date: Sat, 23 Sep 2000 15:30:08 EDT From: ASCO424@aol.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: (no subject) First of all let me tell you. You go to two phish shows and think that you can write a review. I doubt it. You probably did not even know any of the songs except for "heavy things" because that is the song that attracted you to them. You suck, stop writing reviews and seeing shows. I am so sick of all you fake,pussy ass hippies. The way you write those reviews sems like phish is your GOD. Get a life man there only a band. i have seen over 25 shows and you dont see me orgazming over the whole situation.
Date: Sun, 17 Sep 2000 17:18:04 -0400 (EDT) From: Matthew Kelly piperkelly@webtv.net To: dws@archive.phish.net Subject: My two expirences this fall. I've been to Darien Lake and Hershey and they both blew me away. The best thing about the time I had was that I was completely sober. I been following the band sice 95 and when I first started seeing them I was more into the drugs and not really appiciating what I was listening to. I saw myself at these concerts in younger people. I'm not going to beat a dead horse but for anyone out there please"MODERATION' . The day of the concert should be a great day to take i just don't end it early. Also to anyone out there who says a particular show isn't the best while there at the show, Don't see so many shows. The greatest band is out there giving you there all, so just sit back and relax. See anyone and everyone at Shoreline. To see my tape trading list, go to: http://community.webtv.net/piperkelly/MattKellysTape
Date: Thu, 7 Dec 2000 10:46:08 -0600 From: Phil Wencl vanbibr@netnitco.net To: dws@netspace.org Subject: Phish I would have totally agreed with the review by Dakin Dugaw on Fri, Oct. 13 about a year ago and I still do for the most part, but things have definitely changed in the lot and shows the past year. I used to go to shows and dance my ass off not even knowing anyone else was in the whole arena, but now ever since Big Cypress (which was the best three days of my entire life to this point) things have headed down hill. Every Phish show I've been to since then has just been different. It seems like the promotions on the radio changed their "scene" for the worst. I went to five shows this year, not including B.C. and they were not like they used to be. I can't remember one time when the crowd was singing along so loud that I couldn't hear the band, but it happened at every show I went to this year. The clap alongs were always cool but not to every song of a set. If anyone has ever been to a Dave Matthews Band concert you know what I'm talking about. I like Dave but his crowd absolutely sux! It's like a drunken, sing-along, Frat party where all people want to do is drink and get fucked up. Not many people go to see them actually for the music and I think that is the direction Phish is heading in some aspects. Why all of a sudden this year did they start promoting shows and CDs on the radio? It's not like their crowd isn't too big already, if everyone who wanted to see a show got in every show would be like Big Cypress. I just don't understand all the promoting for Fall tour and then they take a break. Depending on how long this "break" lasts, I think that this was all just a big scam to them. Hey we'll promote ourselves really big and then we'll take a break for about ? years and then when we come back a lot of people will have gotten into different bands and shit so their crowd will diminish a little. I for one have discovered many new and very good jam bands that I never knew existed until after Phish quit touring. One of the main reasons I like Phish was because they are a word of mouth band and all the people who really don't go to concerts solely for music wouldn't be there. I truly confused as to what Phish is thinking at this point in their careers but I honestly respect the fact that they took a break from it all. People need space and time to spend with their families which is totally understandable. I just did not enjoy this years tour nearly as much as I enjoyed previous tours. I just hope that they still entertain me more than some fans piss me off when they return. It's strange going to a Phish show and only seeing a few heads to the multiple Frat boy, jock beer guys. Sorry, there is no other way to explain them. I don't know what to expect from them anymore, at one time I had an idea. Even in the lot you have just as many people attending for the drugs and don't give a shit about the band at all. There are just a lot of rude people just trying to scam money and things from good people. At Deer Creek there was this African American people doing card tricks for money. Everyone I saw lost and no one won. I saw one kid lose all of his tickets for the remainder of the tour. Now I damn well know that that man is not going to attend the shows and that he will scalp those tickets. This is just a vicious cycle with these type of people. I have bought extra tickets but I end up giving them away, selling them for face, or trading them. I saddens me that this type of shit is growing more rapidly at shows. Put a stop to these people who are trying to rip all of us good people off, don't play their stupid games because you can't win. Well this has just spiraled out of control so I have to go with one last remark. IT'S ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC, THE BAND, HAVING FUN, AND NOTHING MORE! Peace and Love to ALL, GG
Date: Tue, 3 Oct 2000 20:10:29 -0400 From: The Rock lunarjm@bellsouth.net To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: Vegas For all of you Vegas-hater's out there... "Watch what people are cynical about, and one can discover what they lack." George S. Patton
Date: Thu, 12 Oct 2000 13:07:02 -0400 From: Adam Cox acox@web-works.net To: dws@netspace.org Subject: What Has Happened People seem to forget we are there "for" the band and to support them. They are not up there on stage "For Us." Anyone who cannot understand this should not "Be there" at all. I hear and see so much negativity growing in the fans and it sickens me. If they don't play your song, don't say "the show sucked". If Trey misses a note, don't say "He sucked tonight." I remember a time when the vibe was great to be around. Maybe one day it will return to that level. It's not up the the band to do that, it's all on "OUR" shoulders. I hope somebody will read this and agree with me. Adam
Date: Thu, 12 Oct 2000 13:30:59 -0500 From: "Leever, William E." LeeverWE@bv.com Subject: Fall Tour 2000 I wrote in how depressing it was to read about how bad the scene had become BEFORE I started the west coast tour. Please allow me to revise my state of mind. I am still depressed, but for a far better reason. I did not sense any negative vibes at any of the shows...Vegas to Shoreline. The scene at each event was different and positive. Everyone was amped, people were polite, and most importantly a sense of family filled each venue. The only depressing thing to come out of this tour is that it is over, and I don't know how far into the future we will have to look for the next Phish gathering. Jon, Mike, Page, and Trey...THANK YOU for the music. Take time off, recharge, and some time down the road start thinking about another family reunion. Pax et bonum!
Date: Thu, 12 Oct 2000 14:56:47 EDT From: ULTIMATEVACATION@aol.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: No Subject look, i want to keep it short. we all were once again reminded of why we tour. with this show and obviously both nights in Las Vegas. i tour to hear songs such as ester, walfredo, forbin-mockingbird, the curtain (with), and huge bust outs such as spocks brain. all i have to say is that i have seen only a hand full of shows compared to some of my friends. i have seen around 30. but in the last 8 shows of this tour i saw at least 10 songs that i have longed to here. for the record i dont like kid rocks material all that much. but i gained HUGE respect for him. he is quite the entertainer. and we all rocked out all night at the mandalay bay. the les claypool shows both were completely sick. thank you again, Ryan c.
Date: Wed, 11 Oct 2000 21:20:27 EDT From: Clarke Dempsey clarke_d@hotmail.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: fall tour 2000 Hey everbody. Just a few thoughts on this past fall tour while they're still fresh... First, just a quick word to the bro's and sisters out there who notice all the negative energy infiltrating the scene. Trust me, I feel your pain. It's not like it used to be, where a show was a place where you could go and absolutely go nuts however you wanted, and you would be safe no matter what, because there was nothing but positive energy and good kids around. Gaining popularity definitely has it's drawbacks, but let me make this plea to you: Don't vent on the people that read these reviews, because the people that read these reviews actually DO care about the music, just like you do. This page should be a wellspring of positivity for the kids who can't make it to the shows in my opinion, not a bunch of mis-aimed jabs. And the way I look at it is, screw the scene. I'm here to scoobie, baby -- nothing more, nothing less. OK, that said, I thought that the music this tour was absolutely incredible. Not that it always isn't, but I definitely got the feeling that this was like a "deep breath before the plunge". I was lucky enough to see 7 shows this tour, and there were definitely moments where that kinetic energy from band to crowd was tapped and I felt like I was channeling it through me. That feeling, you know? Words can't describe it. The magic is still there for me. And to anybody who has lost it, don't blame the band, go see some other music and then come back, you'll find it again. One more quick word of thanks to everybody still fighting the good fight out there. Phish.net, you guys rock, thanks so much for your diligence. All you spinners, thank you for keeping me up when I want to lag. Kids, thanks for the smiles and all the funnies. I'll see you all again soon. love peace and light clarke d
Date: Wed, 11 Oct 2000 12:59:14 -0400 From: Greg James gjames@allinonesubmit.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: !!!!!!!!!!THANK YOU PHISH!!!!!!!!!! I just wanted to say thank you to Trey, Mike, Page, Jon, and the entire Phish organization for everything that they have done for ones lucky enough to be touched by the magic that is Phish. You all deserve the time off more than anyone else in the biz, and when and if you decide to come back we'll be right there with you. Let us all take this time to reflect on all the great times that this wonderful organization has brought to us, and look towards the future so when and if the boys decide to return, we can give them our very best once again. We really are the luckiest phans on Earth. Thanks again everyone, for everything. See ya around, Greg
Date: Fri, 6 Oct 2000 16:16:33 -0400 From: brennan kelly bjk@progressivemouse.com Subject: wasn't there I am sick of hearing reviews from spoiled million show hitting trust fund phans. Will the torture never stop? I am a huge fan living in Toronto Canada who's countries dollar is getting down to peso like comparisons to the US dollar. As you could imagine coming to the states to see multiple shows is a problem. PLEASE phans, realise how lucky you all are to even SEE these boys play. You all need a sabbatical and a head check as much as the boys do. Oh ya, if anyone feels like being philanthropic and flying this kid down for Saturdays show at shorline give me a shout at pinner99@hotmail.com He he. The Mayor of Toronto peace
Date: Wed, 4 Oct 2000 15:47:58 -0500 From: "Gardner, Bradley J. DN GLNDC" bjgardner@gl.med.navy.mil Subject: Five pounds, Six pounds, Seven pounds..... Your opinion doesn't w eigh much. Jason, I feel offended that you have voiced such a firm opinion. When you think of something valuable to bring to the attention of the thousands of people that read these reviews, please let us know. I think that I can speak for most of us that we are not interested in one persons NEGATIVE objective view of or about the band. Whether you like them or not is your opinion and should not be written herein. I am sure there are plenty of people that you would be able to muster up and start an "Anti-Phish" alliance with to sit outside the venues and get laughed at. So just remember opinions are like assholes........Just keep it to yourself. If you feel Sooo strongly about your feelings, I think you should call Phish direct and tell them how they should play their songs and in what sequential order. Better yet since You are the expert Musician yourself, why don't You get Your ass up on that stage and show us what ya got. Doubt you'll sell any tickets and your light show would pretty much suck. Oh I forgot, You would rather fire laser beams at kitty's head. But alas, I hear there taking applications for "Geech and the Shrimp-shack shooters"! So please don't compose your expert advice and brainpower where we can read it. I'll treat it like a kind nug and burn it. Like the old frog said once before "Look before you leap" And as for the rest of the pholks out in Aqualand, I'll be seein' you on the next tour!! Gamehenge IS a state of mind! Long-live GAMEHENGE!!
Date: Wed, 4 Oct 2000 15:58:28 EDT From: FunkMan008@cs.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: this one is good well this is just a random statment since i had to jump off tour early, and i cant take watching these insane setlists everynite. I feel anyone who knows whats up with phish knows this tour has blew up. My last show was my 50th, in minnesota. I got mellow mood and i like to think this was especially for me.i was content after this show but now wish i was still on tour.im glad the boys plan to tour for "another 17 " years, but i think in 25 years when it is all said and done, we will all look back at phall 2000 and say it was one of the best, as was years like 97 and 95 and 93.im sorry i cant say no more.
Date: Wed, 04 Oct 2000 01:39:15 -0700 From: Jason Wicha j_wicha@skidmore.edu To: dws@archive.phish.net Subject: phish review phish fucking sucks, and so does kid rock. If any of you phish kids know a fucking thing, you know phish hasn't written a good song in seven years, and they haven't played good music in several years. For the skeptics who try to deny how bad the music and the scene has gotten, I hope kid rock sitting in will finally make you realize what true phish is all about nowadays. I am gald they're taking time off, and I hope they realize how much they've sucked.
Date: Mon, 2 Oct 2000 17:22:46 EDT From: CT1113@aol.com To: dws@netspace.org Subject: A note about reviews/scenes/vacations/and music Hello everyone. I saw 8 shows during the course of summer & fall tours, and I must say I enjoyed every single minute of music I heard/saw/experienced and want to say thanks to Mike, Page, Fish, Trey, CK5, and the entire crew for furnishing me with endless hours of fun and experience through music. As my number of shows attended has increased to the mid-teens, I feel as though I am seasoned enough to know the difference between a really hot night of Phish and just a hot night of Phish. There is nothing standard about Phish shows, not one aspect of the full experience, ie, the lot/vending, the lights, the security, the kids who go to the shows. No one can limit who goes in, however, one would think that if you consider yourself a diehard fan, then you would be responsible enough to wake up at 8:30 a.m. the day tix go on-sale or mail order, so that you won't have to waste valuable energy holding your arm up trying to score a "miracle." A "miracle" is just that, something incomprehensible and totally unexpected. Do not walk (or stomp) around like a Nazi with a pissed-off look on your face screaming "Who's got my extra?" like it's been owed to you because you're on the road, and your dreadlocks authenticate your worthiness as a Phish fan more than the clean-cut fratboy meathead who's got second row seats for his first show. Discrimination due to appearance is wrong no matter what your "look" of choice is. I hate to tell you, but the Phish scene is very diverse. Phish's music is not purely hippie music, and as a listener to primarily "hippie" music, I find Phish's style very refreshing and diverse. I mean face it, these guys are liable to do any song on any night. Which brings me to song selection and the criteria for writing a "good" song. The musicians play the songs they want to play, the ones they either "feel" that night or maybe even feel that they have down tight at that time. Don't be pissed that you think "Heavy Things" is bubble gum or that it's played on the radio. Phish was on "The World Cafe'" at the beginning of the summer, and Trey said (I'm paraphrasing) that if they were to write a song which they as a unit felt was a GOOD song, and it got played on the radio they would be thrilled. He then went on to say that he grew up listening to the radio, and was very positive about airplay. He also said that they never went out of their way to put a song on the radio. Last, but not least, why does Trey seem to get the brunt of every negative review. When anyone mentions one member of the band in an off way, it always seems to be aimed at Trey. Hello, the sound--and this new sound in particular--is based off all four members (plus, of course, CK5) making one very full sound. I've listened to a lot of Phish in my time, including the older "kick-ass, jammed out, blow your mind" kind of stuff from the early days, and you can't tell me that stuff has a fuller sound. Phish is a machine, one unit of sound. If you don't dig it, sorry, but as I saw at All-State both nights, these guys can still pull off the old stuff with just as much intensity when they want to. I rest my ramble, and thanks for reading. See you soon, I hope. Chris
Date: Fri, 29 Sep 2000 09:11:08 -0400 From: DAVID MARTINEZ DMARTINEZ@HEARST.COM To: dws@archive.phish.net Subject: Don't vote for Phish as VH1's band of the year This is not a review, but I wasn't sure where to post it and it's important that everyone consider this. Please tell me if this makes sense to anyone else. Like most people who check this site a few times a day, I love Phish and have been disappointed the past few years at some of the things I've seen occur at shows. With all the publicity that the band has been getting (especially in 1999-2000) being voted band of the year is probably the worst thing that could happen to them. They already more popular than I believe they want to be. I agree with the countless reviews I've read stating that "the band looked upset", or "...didn't appreciate having to dodge glowsticks", or "why are there teens there who don't even know why they are there except that they heard it's cool because you can get REALLY fucked up and no one hassels you?". I've also seen things I never thought I would at a show (fights, ridiculous attitudes and just too much general apathy for anyone else around). I think we should use the time that the band takes off this coming year to really check ourselves. Talk with each other. Ask ourselves what we can each do to make the scene more like what we remember it being. I also agree with the reviewer who suggests that the hiatus will force all the bandwaggoners to find something else to do. Hopefully with Phish out of sight for a while, they will be out of many people's minds. Then once the scene resumes we can all enjoy it, peacefully again. We all know Phish is more than band of the year anyway. They are pretty much the band of most of our lives. So, DON't vote for Phish as band of the year. As a matter of fact, vote for some other top 40 band whose members would sell their mothers for the publicity Phish has gotten. Finally, before anyone suggests that I am Phishier-than-thou, I was flamed heavily for a previous review. I don't really care about that as I welcome all comments and/or criticisms, but I ask that you send them to my personal address at martymartesq@hotmail.com, rather than my work email. See you all when the tour resumes! -Dave
Date: Tue, 26 Sep 2000 00:01:45 -0500 From: RATM_1 RATM_1@email.msn.com Subject: Just need to vend I was at All State and the Target Center and a couple of things really sadend me. The first was the fact that these could be my last 3 shows before the "break" and thats o.k., but the man thing was the crowd. I hate doing this but at the Target Center I decided I have had enough. First, why do people pay 30 dollars or more for a ticket to scream or talk. That maybe fun at a Van Halen concert but Phish is not that kind of a band. Also, what is so important that people need to talk about at a show, it's only three hours talk outside. The two biggest things that upset me at the Target was the glowstick war during the break in divided sky, people I was three rows back in front of Trey he was not smiling, he was stupified that people would rather throw plastic and yell than listen. And during Chalkdust three kids tried to start moshing, at a Phish show what the hell??!!??, stick to Metallica for that. I hate to sound like a downer but I just think the show could be better for all if people would just chill out and dance. One more thing, why have'nt people figured out yet that the band doesn't dig the clapping.
Date: Fri, 29 Sep 2000 14:57:06 -0500 From: "Gardner, Bradley J. DN GLNDC" bjgardner@gl.med.navy.mil Subject: Fall Tour Get's tossed at Just wanted to say something that might be of interest to some of the more seasoned fans. I've been following Phish since '95 and have seen the "scene" change in an un-favorable way. I'm not here to discuss the good or the bad, but rather the thing's that would make our "community" stronger. I feel that we need to stop pointing fingers at who should or should not be at a show. I mean, everyone does have the right to buy a ticket. I feel that Phish is somewhat responsible for the outcome of the crowd nowadays though. There has been way too much publicity in 1999-2000. New CD's, interview's, television appearence's, and a movie. Don't get me wrong, I support anything that the boy's decide to do, but I think getting way to promoted before taking a much needed year off is not the way to go. It's not like we are going to forget about the "Biggest Jam-Band In The World" or something. This publicity is actually hurting the "Phamily" right now as we speak. Way too many conflicting people showing up to the shows. I don't believe that I have ever heard so much complaning over a tour, than I have since this year. Why are there so many disturbances at shows anymore? Because we are getting selfish and are not looking out for each other like we should be and have done before. Selling over-priced ticket's and dishing out bullshit in the lot's is only a couple of the plagues that are consuming our community. And we all wonder why there is so much security presence at every show. People, We are the destiny and the future of the greatest band of all time and we throw glowsticks at them. This is not the way to treat the band you care about and love to see. I would just hope that everyone would take a step back and look at how they contribute or if they contribute to the"scene" and the rest of the Phamily. We need to Re-evaluate ourselves and "keep what's important and know who's our friend". So help keep the scene clean and do your part to encourage peace and harmony in our community again. For we have something that is so special and irreplaceable to see get thrown away by "bad apples". And P.S., please judge your distance when throwing those glo-sticks. I know if I was jamming my ass off I would'nt want to get bombarded with glowing hard plastic. Happy Trails!! Keep the phaith!! ;~)
Date: Fri, 29 Sep 2000 16:07:39 -0400 From: Matthew Griffin Mgriffin@goisg.com To: dws@netspace.org Subject: general fall tour SOLUTIONS File under satire;sarcasm;smart-ass; whatever ? Fall tour solution: Keep throwing glowsticks,...throw them HARD. Directly at the stage and the talented people raging there upon it. I mean really launch those suckers. Throw them at Carini ("Carini has a bloody head !"---cool lyric!!). Oooh! I know, maybe go to the local glowstick firing range,(provided your area has one) and practice your glowstick throwing accuracy. So when you are ready to kill the vibe at your next Phish show, you will be good and ready. Ok there you are, and Page is focusing on his coil solo, but you could of sworn he shot you a dirty look because of the pink glowstick clutched in your sweaty little fist. "I'll teach him !", you say to yourself, "I'll teach him good!" You aim......you fire.....A DIRECT HIT.....right to the delicate hands of your oppressor. The soft flesh lacerates and starts to bleed. Page, in shock, stops playing (but he should have known better than to mess with you, the fastest pink glowstick chucker in the Midwest !!). The show is now stopped as Page is rushed back stage . Soon the announcement that the rest of the show has been canceled due to the "accident". "This is bullshit !", you shout, "now who am I going to throw shit at ?!". Then you remember that Simpsons episode where Bart and Lisa let the sibling rivalry hockey game end in a winless tie. Chief Wiggam yells, "let's tear this place apart !" The glowstick RIOT ensues. Sun dresses fly, patchwork trouser shred, shouts of "TKE's RULE" fill the air (enter your cliche' of the scene here). Oh the humanity ! Days later, due to the caustic nature of pink glowstick juice, Page has his hands removed to prevent blindness, sterility, and other nasty medical conditions. Per Trey, since one member of the band is gone, the band is now gone. Solution complete. All the hours of glowstick chucking practice has really paid off ! Additionally, pholowers looking for the new deal, start touring with DMB and Rusted Root, and within months, those scenes die (now that WOULD be cool ! ). But I digress. Keep chucking those sticks kids. They're pretty ! August 11, 1993 is dead!!....LONG LIVE AUGUST, 11 1993 !! hey, someone let me know when it actually IS over, so I can watch for the Behind the Music episode. I'm going off to follow Queens of the Stone Age. Josh Homme is GOD ! "that noise is more important than you are,......that noise is more important than your whole life......and it will stop you from having an orgasm,......on the playboy channel" 1st person to identify and e-mail me the Artist, Album and Track Title, will receive 2 free cd's from me (free shipping and all). Because I care. Bye all, MRG.
Date: Wed, 27 Sep 2000 10:00:52 -0700 From: "Sikes, Paul" SikesP@LanePowell.com Subject: fall problems all these problems on tour (what do you expect out east and in middwest- come on people these are the frat brothers of all the people that made woodstock '99 such a memorable event) yet the area of the country that has, by far, the most mellow crowds (pac. nw) gets totally shafted on the fall tour . . . I guess the notion that if you're not gonna definitely sell out, why play there, has become the mentality. just my 2.
Date: Wed, 27 Sep 2000 17:45:41 -0400 From: Skill Center Skillctr@net-link.net may i make a suggestion, we begin policing ourselves. if you sell glowsticks than you better tell people not to throw them at the band. If we see you throw one at the stage we will point you out to everyone and announce "this person throws glowsticks at the band" and follow them everywhere telling everyone. i have never come out of a show with such anger and frustration in me. Not only was the band unable to have fun, i wasnt either. Please people, we need to put a stop to this. thanks j
Date: Tue, 26 Sep 2000 13:09:59 EDT From: Rjs988@cs.com To: dws@archive.phish.net Subject: TWO CENTS I HAVE BEEN SEEING PHISH SINCE 88 AND HAVE TO SAY THAT THE SCENE IS BECOMING MUCH LIKE THAT OF THE DEADS IN THE 90'S. KIDS GOING TO SHOWS ONLY TO GET FUCKED AND ALL THE OTHER CRAZY SHIT SO MANY REVIEWERS HAVE POSTED RECENTLY. PLEASE PEOPLE, DON'T JUMP ON THE BANDWAGON BECAUSE YOU LIKE TO PARTY AND FEEL THAT YOU CAN BECAUSE YOUR IN "THE LOT". GO TO THE SHOWS FOR THE MUSIC FIRST AND THE SCENE SECOND AND RESPECT BOTH AS YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE RESPECTED. DON'T FUCKING WHINE ABOUT COPS, SECURITY, ECT.. PLAY IT SAFE AND KEEP TO YOURSELF AND MOST OF THE TIME YOU WILL NOT HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THESE PEOPLE. DON'T ACT LIKE YOU CAN GET AWAY WITH ANYTHING. I THINK THE BREAK IS MUCH NEEDED...IF THINGS KEEP GOING THE WAY THEY ARE.... NO MORE TOURS...
Date: Mon, 25 Sep 2000 11:02:47 -0500 From: "Leever, William E." LeeverWE@bv.com Subject: Fall Tour 2000 Review Comments glowsticks...bad arena's...arrests...drugs...rape...DEATH!!!!! I'm depressed already.
Date: Tue, 26 Sep 2000 05:17:07 -0700 From: Pat Reilley preilley@sun.iwu.edu To: dws@netspace.org Subject: Fall Tour 2000 TWIMC, There's been a lot of talk on all the reviews about how bad the scene is getting. I just turned 19, and have been to only 16 shows, the first of which was only two years ago (Alpine '98; what a perfect first show). And I can honestly say my first Alpine show and this year's were definitely a little different, but c'mon people. Phish is honestly one of the best things that ever happened to me. The way people take care of each other is unreal. And the music is simply the best. What goes around comes around. If you're an asshole selling tickets for over face (forty bucks should be unheard of) and pushing your way through GA, you're gonna get it in the end. This really is the far minority, though. Phish shows are filled with love. Some of the things they do musically are borderline incomprehendable and the lights are worth thirty bucks by themselves. My buddy got horked on the other night by some kid who probably thought Phish sucked the first time he heard Heavy Things on the radio. But who cares? Even getting horked on makes for a good story. I know I usually dont smell real good after a show anyway. All Im trying to say is enjoy the fucking show. I look forward to Phish year-round. I've met some of the coolest people on earth at shows. Ive gotten hooked up phat at shows many a time, and the assholes that are on tour arent gonna stop me from spreading the love and doing the same. My favorite place on earth is at a Phish show. There's no place like home. Sharin' in the Groove (like everyone should be), Pat
Date: Mon, 25 Sep 2000 19:58:21 -0400 From: Julie Tepe julietepe@cinci.rr.com Subject: Do Not Throw Glowsticks at the Band!!!!!! I thought the show was a good show and could have been allot better if the "fans" did not chuck glow sticks at the band. If I ever see anyone chuckin' sticks at the band I like most, I am going to rip off their head, shit down their trachea, and scull fuck the shit out of them. Got it? G PS. Sorry about the language, but something has to be done or the band may seriously never play again.
Date: Mon, 25 Sep 2000 09:33:39 -0400 From: Joe Schuirmann joe.schuirmann@plastomer.com Subject: Phish reviews The Allstate Arena shows went well. Allstate doesn't have great acoustics (but there acoustics are much better than they were. I used to live in the Chicagoland area and saw many different shows at the Rosemont, and they have definitely imprved the sound system.) The arena's parking situation was horrendous, and the layout of the place isn't the best, but the staff was quite friendly and helpful. Not only did I not have one problem with any member of the staff at Allstate, but they went out of their way to be of assistance. I've been attending Phish shows since '95, and I have to tell you, I don't want to read reviews from people who say "This was my second, third or fourth show!) I think you should section them into groups - personally I would rather read a review from a more experienced Phishhead. You can own every show on tape, but nothing beats attending a live show. However, the opinion s I wish to read are of those who have attended at least 10-20 shows. Let's say you can only go to about 2-4 shows per year. (I average 4-6. I think that's pretty good, considering I have kids.) If you have been seeing Phish for 5 years, that's between 10 and 20, and I think by then you have an understanding of how a show works, what to expect and what to look for. So, I'd rather read the review of a more "seasoned" fan. Not that the newer fans have nothing to say or should be banned, but rather, if you'd like to read them, great, otherwise, I have a limited amount of time and would rather not read them. However, upon writing this, I realize you may not have the time to seperate the reviews in this manner. Keep up the good work, and thanks. Joe Schuirmann
Date: Sun, 24 Sep 2000 16:32:34 -0700 (PDT) From: Dominic Siciliano dsiciliano@yahoo.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: Review of Sept. 23 Just a message really: Hello to everyone. Just wanted to say I don't get many opportunities to see Phish and when I do I really look forward to it. I love their music very much and I have a deep respect for the men who bring it to us. I was able to get one of my best tickets ever for Saturday night. I was very excited to be sitting Page side extremely close to the band. I realize now maybe it's better to be far away; then you can't see the band's agony as they try to play while dodging glow sticks aimed at them and their instruments. Man, I am so bummed out and disappointed. That single glowstick war ruined the whole night. We missed two songs because of it I'm sure. From where I was sitting, I was able to see every expression on Trey's face. He started off having so much fun; he was doing his knee drops, showing his big goofy smiles. But once those glowsticks started coming in, his whole demeanor changed. To make matters worse, as someone on this page has already stated, the band had to dodge glowsticks on their way off stage. Terrible. My only request is if you read this and you go to another show this tour, please, please, please stop the person next to you from chucking glowsticks. It's out of hand, it's uninteresting, it's a distraction, it's horrible. Dominic Sicliano dsiciliano@yahoo.com
Date: 25 Sep 2000 19:15:06 -0000 From: Dan Starr danstarr@madmail.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: Comments on 9/24 Reviews I will start off with something positive. I love reading the reviews, they are a good way of keeping the love goin'!!! HOWEVER, it is complete garbage when people are obviously looking at the setlists posted and commenting on it from fragments of their memory. That is lazy and it fucking sucks. One guy mentioned that people forgot Phirst Tube but that the newspaper reviewer even noted it. I mean give me a break!! If you are going to review a show, be decent and take notes it's obvious that at least two people did... and that is a SAD occurance. So, if you are going to make comments on a show, take the time to write the setlists on something and even go as far as to make personal notes. I don't care how many shows you have seen or whatever, just take some time with your comments. After all, they could still be around years from now so make them count!!!! Keep on Rockin' Big D.
Date: Mon, 25 Sep 2000 11:14:25 -0500 From: "Yach, Jason" Jason.Yach@plexus.com To: "'dws@gadiel.com'" I just want to put in two cents to phish taking some time off. I think they should not only because a lot of the "fans" have become idiots and are very discourteous but they also expect too much from this band. Admit it people, you want too much, you are greedy just like a lot of people are becoming n these days. No respect for these guys. Why should they respect you. but they continue to come out and kick ass show after show. I can't wait till they take a break. you guys deserve it. enjoy the time. later.......until we meet again some day?
Date: Mon, 25 Sep 2000 10:54:36 -0400 From: Greg James gjames@allinonesubmit.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: comments Hi all, Not too sure where this would go, but here's my take on what went down at Allstate this weekend. Not too much to say except that both shows were fantastic. Complete bliss for me. These were the two of the best back-to-back Phish shows I've seen in a long, long time. First set started with a big DWD, such a nice way to start the weekend. These guys are such great improvisers that the next string of songs, Meat>Poor Hear>Wilson>Slave is just amazing. You just had to be there. Huge Gin with Page taking the reins and just running with it, amazing. Heavy Things is Heavy Things. An even bigger YEM ended the first set with everyone in disbeleif of what had just happened. Second set started off a little off beat with Tube, but the boys settled into a nice funky groove half way thru the song...First nite is all about the Reba jam, SICK..completely flawless...we spent both nites on the floor, just to the left fo the soundboard. Very nice with TONS of room to dance. Paul did a wonderful job with the sound, and Chris did just was well with the lights, so so good.....The Ghost was good, but it seemed like for a little while they were just playing, not really improvising. However, they did bring the song back and turned into the Ghost we've all come to know and Love..so layered and thick you could cut it with a knife. The Wedge (first of the year) and Circus were very well placed and played with no mistakes, very nice indeed. Then they did the Meatstick with the Japanese lyrics which was completely off the hook, so so good..and the Antelope to follow was chocked full of Meatstick teases that just added to the theme of the entire show..Encored with Bold as Love which I am partial to, so I rested myself and just soaked in the beauty of the nite. Saturday's show was the main reason I love Phish so much. After an epic first nite that would be hard to follow up (see Deer Creek '99) the boys came out and just tore the entire arena apart. Opened with a first time Come on Baby Let's Go Downtown which was a nice treat. A Crazy Horse cover played on Trey tour but the firt time for Phish, which was really nice. Then the funk hit, and hit hard with a sick Moma..drowning in the funk at this point. Then the raging Frankenstein came out to play. So much energy in the crowd. After the boys finished Frakenstein, they went into the Halleys>Fee>Stash which had everyone scratching their heads in amazement when the boys were finished. However, I must say the the infamous glow-sticks had a huge effect on the shortness of the first set. The boys were getting PUMMELED. All I have to say is what goes around comes around. Those who think it's cool to throw anything at the stage have another thing coming, and when something goes wrong in their life I hope they can think back to the day they hit one of the boys with a "laser beam." How would you like it if you had to dodge these stupid things while doing your job? Alright, enough venting and back to the Halleys, which was a little short, but always a treat to hear. Fee was the best ever, imho and the Stash was just as good, but again the first set was short, which paved the way for the enormous second set that was right around the corner, which opened with a nice Birds and then the song we have all been waiting for, and boy was it HUGE. The first of the tour, this Tweezer was worth the wait and so tight, people were losing their shit all over the place. NICU>Scent was awesome. Probably the best Scent I've heard, live or on tape. FEFY was a nice breather from the aerobic activity we were all engaged in, then the boys picked it back up with one the best Piper's I've ever heard, reminded me of Big Cypress. A nice segue into Character Zero was a nice way to end a set that was so full of energy you couldn't stand still. I don't know what it is about Sleeping Monkey, but the boys always seem to play it after an epic show (see 12.18.99). This evening was no exception. Great version right into the Tweezer reprise. So so good. They really are the best band on earth. Can't wait for Vegas!! and then Shoreline!!!! WOHOOOOOOOO!!!! See ya around, greg ps...to all the people who decide to throw glow-sticks, don't you think the band gave us a message back in '98 at the New Years MSG show when they passed out 50,000 GLOW RINGS? Why don't you just use those instead? They are much safer and don't pose a threat to anyone who may get hit by one. I know I'd much rather be hit by a glow-ring, and I'm sure just about everyone else can say the same thing. Just a suggestion.
Date: Sun, 24 Sep 2000 19:51:56 EDT From: Murphteach@cs.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: Glow Sticks!!! PLEASE READ AND TAKE RESPONSIBILITY! We all love the guys on stage! It is the biggest distraction to all phans when we see the guys... we SO love & enjoy...being pegged with glow sticks. Their energy goes from listening and focusing on the energy of the room, which includes you, me, the crowd, eachother, basically everything within their senses ...to the glow sticks and evading being hit. Their safe space on the stage is made into a dodgeball game for the fans (w/ an F). If you are wondering why we might be getting a quick set or short show...it might possibly be because the guys are taking shelter back stage! Please respect that space on stage and STOP being so selfish to everyone in the arena as well as the phab phour! We urge that ALL TRUE PHANS come together and make sure that this stupid selfish act will come to a stop. Please spread the word so we can stop this simply annoying trend. As far as the show...I can always have fun, but this is the 5th show this year where I have seen a band member or members get hit. It is getting ridiculous and I believe we are the ones who loose in the end. Thanks for understanding and cooperation...please spread the word!!!!! Jeremy Murphy
Date: Sat, 23 Sep 2000 20:00:57 -0400 From: Dave Swenson dave@smokedog.com To: dws@netspace.org Subject: general review of tour Hello all. This is not a review of any particular show, just Phish tour in general. I know you don't care but I have seen around 40 Phish shows in the three years I have been seeing the band and used to follow the dead . There is something seriously wrong with our community and the supposed "phamily" that follows phish. It seems that in the past few years the scene has gone fro m pleasurable to miserable. Don't get me wrong , I love PHISH and have the utmost respect for them and EVERY show they play. The problem with the scene is not the band it is these fucking stupid smack heads, x heads, coc heads, etc. I love drugs they are fucking great but people let it get the best of them and it affects the mood of everyone else. I don't know about the rest of y'all but I hate seeing strung out kids holding there finger up, asking for money and having the fucking nerve of having a dog tied with some worn out rope on their wrist. I believe in miracles. But don't ask for a miracle when you just blew all your money on smack or blow. Get fucking real, take care of yourself your health and your dog. Don't bring a dog on tour if you can't afford to feed it and give it the love and respect a dog reserves. There is a huge presence of cops on this tour of course . Be smart and careful. Makin' ends ain't worth going to jail. There are NARCS everywhere. Another thing: all of the reviews I have read, about people bitching and moaning about the band repeating a song, playing it too often or not well enough is a bunch of crap. The band fucking rocks. If you are going to get pissed cause you may here to many Farmhouse songs, or another Gin or whatever. Keep it to yourself, stop going to see Phish and especially don't put it in a review. Most people reading these reviews are reading them cause they did not go, they don't want to hear you bitch about a song you don't like. Be kind. The band is going to play whatever moves them. If they play Jiboo every other show of the tour than so be it. If you don't like it go home. Personally I think all of the shows from this year and the fall tour especially have been absolutely stellar. Phish rocks and I love them and the community, I just hate to see the lack of respect for the band and for people in general that exists amongst our community. "Keep whats important and know whos your friend". Be kind, Be real, Be Safe, Be Smart and KEEP THE SCENE CLEAN. Sorry for the sermon. Peace & Love to all in the community. See ya on the west coast................VIVA LAS VEGAS!
Date: Wed, 20 Sep 2000 20:00:11 EDT From: PhishDude9@aol.com Subject: Review I already wrote one, but i didnt see it on the page, so i was wondering if maybe you hadn't gotten it. My review is pretty simple, and isn't specific to just the 9/12 show (which I thought was magic) People are so caught up these days with who is who, and what is what...I probably read 15 reviews about how people are so fake or not good enough fans now. People need to chill out and just love the music. I'm not saying that people don't love the music, but they are ruining somehting great by finding all of the negative points at the concerts...if you like them, you like them, if you don't you dont. But remember, when all is said and done, the name of the game is phun. Thanks, andrew
Date: Thu, 21 Sep 2000 11:32:18 -0700 (PDT) From: Kenny Scelfo krsuno@yahoo.com Subject: phish review HERE IS MY EXAMPLE OF A WAY-TOO CRITICAL PHISH PHAN Last night's show was disappointing from the beginning. First off when did Phish shows ever become the in thing to do? I remember back in 88 when nobody liked Phish and I used to hang with Trey backstage. Now it's like such a hassle even getting into the venue. It started raining and I was like "Hey, c'mon God, let's be real here." The show opened up with an everage at best version of Cars, Trucks and Buses. I like the 96 versions the best, when I did the whole tour and the scene was still cool. The rest of the set was standard. I wish Trey would play like he used back in the day. And how come they NEVER play Esther anymore? The second set was boorish from the getgo. The new Farmhouse material is just not old school enough for me to groove too. I mean, like, I used hang with Trey backstage in 88, ya know? It's Ice could have been done better and what's the deal with Sand? I swear if they don't play like they used to I'm not comin anymore. I'm tired of this bullsh**. BBFCFM was cool, I guess. I left before the encore, Cavern, to beat the traffic and have more time to sulk. Peace. STOP GOING IF ALL YOU DO IS COMPLAIN!! DON"T RUIN THE SCENE FOR THOSE OF US WHO STILL HAVE FUN!!!!!!
Date: Wed, 20 Sep 2000 12:18:57 PDT From: Max Buzz festerfestproductions@hotmail.com Subject: A Note About Reviews A Note About Reviews These reviews are becoming increasingly laborious to read. And they^̉re boring. The constant "I, Me, Mine" content with little or no real information about the shows themselves is becoming overwhelming. No one cares about how the reviewer got to the show or what was going on in their personal lives before, during and after the show. This just makes the reviews long and uninteresting. What matters are the shows themselves. Stick to the subject. When particular songs are commented on, phrases like "wow" and "I was happy they played that" tell the reader nothing about the performance. Also, relating what song was being played when you went to the bathroom means nothing to the reader. Unless you like to sit and read your own reviews over and over please remember that you are writing for the reader who is interested in the shows, not you! Max Buzz FesterFest Productions festerfestproductions@hotmail.com
Date: Tue, 19 Sep 2000 17:16:18 -0400 From: Judith Pew jallenp@home.com Subject: merriweather show To those in the back of the mall parking lot: i know this is an inappropriate review and i'll make it short. i love phish, came up from Blacksburg, Va by myself, to the show. cops came up to my car while i was feeding my dogs, asked me what i was doing cause i looked suspicious, asked if they could search the car. i said that won't be necesary, and they saw the case to my tube, looked in, and placed me under arrest for paraphenalia. i got upset and asked to be read my miranda rights because they further questioned me about what was in the car. i asked for those around to watch, and the cops got pissed because they knew they fucked up. my car was further searched and three sugar cubes were found. I NEED WITNESSES for the intial illegal search. you all probably know better and would say my word against the cops, HA. but, there are kind, loving souls out there who believe. Since my first show, i've always questioned if phish lovers are just selfish kids. the look in everyone eyes told me no. i will compensate those who help me. I apologize for posting an inappropriate message space in this review section. Thanks for your time. Many have said that shows are going to shit, and that others are ruining for us all. Some of the causes of this degeneration are a dilution of the fan base by those who love shows because of the lot and "drugs". I met one guy in jail who is doing tour and honestly did not give a fuck about seeing any of the shows. It was only about lot, drugs, and selling tickets for $60-100 He only wanted to make money. I am sorry, but i honestly believe the problem is the trendiness of the band. the trendiness gets people listening to the music and slowly it grows on them. but before it grows enough on them, they are caught up in the nuggets, E, L, smack, and so forth. None of these are bad. but when its your main focus, you cannot give the band back the energy released by the drugs before the show, it is gone and you are more tolerant, and the band FEELS this. enthusiasm is dampened, and then those who are not quite phish fanatics yet, get bored. the heavy dilution of this segment in the crowd makes it hard for the band to feel the natural high of those who can give the band their all no matter what emotional or physical condition they are in and whether or not they are high. Do Not get me wrong, i think drugs accentuate life, but when you puff ten times before the show, you are not going to get high for more than 30 minutes. compare it to waking and baking. this first high of the day is soaring, energetic, and elevated; but receptors are used up and you become more tolerant. I always hear everyone labeling the phish crowd like some others kids are the cause of the shit going down. but does the above describe you or friends of yours? think about this the next time you feel the band is jamming themselves into a hole. The music is a direct reflection of the energy of the crowd. Consider new years or halloween or coveted venues (Deer Creek, Hampton etc) and then some of the less hyped shows. or times like when a What's the Use has quieted down the crowd, and then the energy is more difficult to summon from everyone. The band plays because of the exchange of energy, and what it does for their souls. It is not entirely for us. they have their money now, they will always sell out shows, they do not have to win us over anymore. Therefore, give the band your all, and they will play their hearts out. dance, and twist, and let your energy fly loose. or smoke pot the ENTIRE show, which means you are not concentrating and listening to the music, rather thinking about security busting you. You wonder why trey leaves the stage abrubtly, or the band does not bow in unison? You think it's disrespect towards us. Think again. consider if you are offering any disrespect. One last thing: i believe it is RUDE to applaud when the band has not finished a song yet, it seems to me everyone is more excited that the band is going to start a fresh jam, rather that offering their opinion on what an insane jam just occurred. applaud when you mean it.
Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2000 11:21:58 EDT From: BackontheTrain@aol.com Subject: Phish Reviews Question Think we can get anyone to write a review who has been to more than 5 shows?
Date: Mon, 18 Sep 2000 11:13:00 -0400 From: "Joseloff, Larry" Larry.Joseloff@enews.com Subject: General Fall Tour Reviews After missing Summer Tour due to getting married I was able to catch Hershey and Merriweather. I read on these reviews how this summer the lot scene was really dirty and lots of hard drugs and people dying and being raped and crap like that. The truth of the matter besides the COPS who were out of control I thought everyone was relatively calm and normal. I saw very little hard drugs and the scene was just like it always has been for the past few years. The police were crazy arresting people for "resisting arrest" when someone underage spilled out their beer. Everyone needs to realize the secret is out and be careful and lay low. I thought both shows were good but not stellar. Neither will stick out in my mind as some of the greatest shows, but I had fun and that is what it is all about. It is a privilege to see Phish and it's always going to be good. One day they won't be around so be thankful for everything. Thanks Larry Larry_joseloff@yahoo.com
Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2000 21:00:35 -0400 From: Joseph Matarazzo joematarazzo@mediaone.net Parts/Attachments: It's amazing to me what people write in these reviews. I think many of us need to realize that Phish are 4 HUMAN BEINGS that have toured relentlessly for the past 17 years. Some of you should try to do anything at all for 17 years and see if you can do that thing perfectly and please everybody every time. Maybe they didn't feel like being at Darien, maybe just didn't have it that night. Whatever the case may be, I think people need to ease up a bit. You're not going to hear every song you want every show (especially if you tour with them and see many shows). They are the masters of improvisation. With improvisation comes off nights; it doesn't always work people. Instead of being appreciative to these guys who for 17 years have shared so many special moments with us, you tear them apart and act like you've been ripped off or something. The lack of appreciation amazes me. I think Phish is getting so big that people forget they're human sometimes. If you are going to go to a show only to get upset, whine and complain that you've heard Jibboo 3 times already this tour, maybe you should take a break from tour. I'm not saying negative reviews are bad in any way, because Phish isn't perfect and they're gonna be off sometimes. The thing that gets me is the lack of appreciation and the failure to remember what this band has done for us. Just my 2 cents so please save your negative reply to this. Later biiiiotches!!!!!
Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2000 09:27:15 -0400 From: Greg James gjames@allinonesubmit.com Subject: just a little somethin' somethin' This is for all the people who are planning to attend the Phish shows this fall. Please keep in mind that the band has ZERO control over who shows up for the shows. They are not responsible for the actions of their fanbase, that is up to the fans. So when you're at a show or shows this fall, please do your best and lead by example. Set good examples for the ones who are less fortunate in that department, because we all know there's at least one in every crowd. Be good to people. Be good family, representin!!! Make a good impact on the communities we visit by behaving and staying in control of your actions. We all like to get a little out there, okay, maybe a lot out there, but it has to be in moderation. Help those that need helping and again, be good to people. Be there for the music. Love it, live it, and all else kinda falls into place. That's it for now. See ya around. Peace, greg
Date: Sat, 16 Sep 2000 16:54:54 -0400 From: Tyler Shusterman tshusterman@mail.wesleyan.edu Two quick comments. First of all, the point of this page is to review the music, and if people feel that something was not as good as it should be, I, for one, would like to know. Second of all, please only review the shows if you were there. Some people seem unable to grasp this semingly basic concept. -Tyler
Date: Sun, 17 Sep 2000 12:29:53 EDT From: ACesca16@aol.com To: dws@archive.phish.net Subject: review There is too much negative energy going on here. People are all pissed off because they don't liek what other people are doing...One of the coolest things about Phish is that you get to do your own thing...Remember Phun is the name of the game.
Date: Fri, 15 Sep 2000 00:37:12 -0400 From: John A. Crichton lazylightenin@hotmail.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: reviews my ass I don't know where you wanna stick this one, maybe put it on the review page so all those idiots out there can read it. People are so fuckin selfish about the music these days. I'm so sick of reading these reviews of people who are complaining because they didn't like a particular version, they've heard the song too many times, it wasn't in the right place during the set.... What the fuck is up with these people? Be glad that they get to see a band who even changes there set lists from night to night!! Would they rather go on Fuckin' Britney Spears tour and see the same cheesy hour and a half set list every night. People don't realize how lucky we are. I started seeing the boyz in 92, and toured with the dead before that for a few years. I'm sad that the old boyz aren't kickin' it in the same form, but yioyu never heard people complaining because they heard another Me & My Uncle. I've seen a lot of shows in my time, and they're all good because we were there, rockin down, enjoying good music. I don't need to hear some tour rat who thinks he's the u;timate phish guru b;abbing after the show that it sucked, "Not as good as 2 nights ago in Worcester." Sure, some nights the energy is electrifying a little more than others, those are magical moments, but it doesn't mean that every thing else pails in comparison. Give the boyz a fuckin' break!!! Maybe if most people weren't all fucked up on shitty chemicals dished out in the lot, they might appreciate the music a little more. And to all those assholes dishin' out the shitty chemicals - FUCK YOU. If you're gonna by E and that shit in the lot, invest in a tester before you go, tell the guy you wanna test it before you buy it. It's so good to see the looks on the faces of the dealers who know there selling dirty drugs!!! My apologies to all those who share my opinions and love the music, shit man, respect the boyz, don't bash them. Could any of us do any better? All that needs to be said. Viva Las Vegas see ya there * reply to lazylightenin@hotmail.com
Date: Thu, 14 Sep 2000 22:17:01 GMT From: Michael McCarthy docmccarthy@hotmail.com To: dws@gadiel.com Subject: Review submission. I have been reading the reviews of the current atmosphere at Phish show's and wanted to comment. I unfortunetly have to agree with many of the statements about the behavior of SOME of the Phans at show's. Unfortunetly there is not much we can do and nothing the band is going to say will change that. We are all responsible for our own actions. Those people with a real problem are not going to listen to anyone untill they are ready and chances are they have already been told that they have a problem. Most rude people that I see are quite young. I remember when I was that young and dumb. Most likley they just don't know how to act. I believe most people don't relly know they are rude and some just don't care. Oh well, not much I can do about that in such a short time (4-6 hours). If you find that the behavior of others is to much to handle than mabey it is time to say good by to the show's. You can always download a recent show and listen in the safty of your own home. For those of us that will not make that sacrifice due to a FEW assholes, all I can say is try to provide the best example possible by acting approprietly. There is always going to be some asshole somewhere trying to screw up everyones good time. You know the guy. The one that is having a bad day and does nothing but bitch about what a terrible show it was, when it may have been one of the best shows you have ever seen. Drug use in that environment is not a new problem. Most people that I meet are on something, but they know their limits and adjust their use accordingly. Even then even the best of us have our moments. I guess I'm trying to say every show can't be a great one. Everyone is not always going to act respectfully. This should help you appreciate the people that do respect your space and are courtious. The ones that don't well fuck em. I'm not there to baby sit. Phish and the Dead are not the only bands or orginazitions that have suffered because of irresponsible actions of it's members/fans. I have only been going to Phish show's since "98" so I am not as fed up as some, but someday I will be. That is when I will take a break. I guess all I can say is thank you to all the people that did not offend me. The stranger that passed me a J and smile. The dude that didn't rip me off in the lot (I work real hard for my money, Thank you for respecting that). I do love the music but the best thing about Phish is the Phans! I always meet some relly great people at show's. That will allway's bring me back. I also want to say I'm sorry to the people that have to stand in front of me...I do yell kinda loud...I can't help it, sometimes I just gotta let it out. I am also a poor dancer I'm sorry if I stepped on your toes, but sometimes I gotta dance even if I look like a fool. I have been having a blast so far. To all, Thanks for the ride!!! See you in the Fall!! Michael Peace, Michael
Date: Wed, 13 Sep 2000 23:09:00 -0700 (PDT) From: David Schottland vesto2000@yahoo.com To: dws@archive.phish.net Subject: Dude- Dude- Short, but to the point: I don't think that these guys who write in their reviews have any idea what they're talking about. They seem to have no idea of musicianship at all, and as a result just sound like a bunch of stoned idiots trying to critique what is simply excellent music. Screw all that jive about Heavy Things sucking because it's a radio song. It's a good song. There was "too much feedback" in Divided Sky? Too much for who?! But I guess these reviews shouldn't be taken so seriously anyway. They're supposed to be perspectives of shows from Phish-heads for Phish-heads, right? There just seem to be too many opinions from people who apparently have no idea what they're talking about. That's all. Sincerely, Dave PS: I'd be interested to hear your response to mine, DWS.
click here to return to the 2000 reviews page
hits (many)