This is a fantastic review...well done OP. I am much more interested in a fair and insightful review of a show than thoughtless, gushing praise. Also, an actual writer that keeps my interest is always welcome on .net, in my humble opinion.

Another point; anyone who thinks that the only people who's review counts are those in attendance at the show are quite wrong. It's difficult to pay attention to 100% of a show while also trying to dance, amuse oneself with substances, chat with friends, and all the other activities that come along with being there. Those distractions aren't really an issue on one's couch, and I suspect that, many times, a couch viewer may have a more valuable perspective on, at the very least, the music that was played, if not the "vibe in the room."

Another point; how many of us were at 12.31.95? Few, I'd wager. Its a legendary show in the history of Phish and one that any fan ought to have listened to quite a bit. I've listened to it enough times to know why saying "turning knobs, turning levers all day," when timed well, is hilarious. I think my perspective on the music of that show is pretty valid, and fuck anyone who disagrees with me because I wasn't there...that's an idiotic attitude.

Well done OP; I hope to read your work again.