This show was, in a word, amazing. Out of the 9 shows I've seen so far this summer, the first set of Hartford stands tall, just above Mansfield and way above the rest!

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I kind of enjoy Pigtail now and honestly I think it was a good choice for the start of the show. The BOAF/Meat/Vultures combo was sheer genius, and sounded great. Paints a really cool picture. I wish they'd take BOAF for a ride in the 2nd set but that's a different topic. Let me Lie - I don't really have any strong feelings against it. They played it well enough! Halley's was next, and kind of segued into Julius which raged REALLY hard. Trey and Page were all over it. I don't think a single person in the venue was expecting a first set Y.E.M. but boy did we get it!! So wonderful. I love this band.

This 2nd set is really something to behold. An absolute monster DWD jam. A really groovy Sand with some fun improv, and Tela! Oh my goodness. I don't think they could have picked a more perfect song for the moment. Trey has DEFINITELY been practicing this song because he nailed ALL of his parts and sounded like a freaking guitar Jedi. Unbelievable. Carini was a bit on the short side, 20YL was decent, but Antelope was awesome! In case people weren't satisfied with what had already transpired (lol) Phish decided to play The Lizards in the encore slot. I mentioned this earlier in the week but I kinda started crying at the end of Tela. It just hit me in the right spot.

This show was without a doubt the peak of my weekend. I was amazed with every aspect of it - the enormous venue, the wonderful people, being with good friends, the great weather. We have had a bit of rain towards the end of the set that was really refreshing.

I hope Phish comes back to Hartford next year. If they do, I'll be sure to follow.