Photo by Rene Heumer

Last night, Phish continued their run at Madison Square Garden and in celebration of Earth Day–during the third set and encore–treated fans to an incredible visual experience in reverence of the natural beauty of the planet. The evening’s first two sets showcased fan favorites, runs of improvisational jams along with some familial tributes.

Phish opened the first set with “Everything’s Right” which led into “Tube.” Next came “555” into “Back on the Train.” After applause they moved into “Army of One” which was followed by a jam of “Axilla (Part II)” > “Bathtub Gin” > “Say It To Me S.A.N.T.O.S.” to close the set.

The second set, which was a non-stop performance, started with “Set Your Soul Free” during which Trey Anastasio teased “Happy Birthday.” Next, they seamlessly moved into “Light” then “Fuego” into “What’s the Use?” and finally into set closer “Backwards Down the Number Line” during which Anastasio wished his daughter Bella happy birthday.

For the third and final set, the atmosphere shifted as did the band’s position; the stage was raised and screens showing moving images in front and below the band were revealed. They began with 1996’s “Free,” which was followed by “A Wave of Hope.” Next came “Wave” > “Sand.” During the pairing drone controlled balloons of whales and dolphins swam throughout and over the 20,000-capacity arena. For the final song of the third set, Phish played “Split Open and Melt” as kelp descended from above over the stage. To cap off the evening for their encore Phish played “It’s Ice.” Prior to the song, a freezing sound echoed through the arena and the images froze in place.

Phish will continue their run at Madison Square Garden tonight.

Phish
Madison Square Garden – New York, N.Y.
April 23, 2022

Set I: Everything’s Right > Tube, 555 > Back on the Train, Army of One, Axilla (Part II) > Bathtub Gin > Say It To Me S.A.N.T.O.S.

Set II: Set Your Soul Free > Light > Fuego > What’s the Use? > Backwards Down the Number Line

Set III: Free, A Wave of Hope, Waves > Sand, Split Open and Melt

Enc.: It’s Ice