This weekend marks the first time that the road warriors, Phish, have played Cincinnati in over six-and-a-half years. Their last stint in the Nasty ‘Nati came in February of 2003, when they played two nights at U.S. Bank Arena, which is where they will be this weekend. As of Thursday afternoon, tickets were still available but were likely to sell out.
One of the most successful touring bands of all-time, Phish is known for extended, improvisational jams and an exploration across most music genres including rock, jazz, prog, psychedelic, funk, bluegrass, reggae, country, blues and classical. Often thought of as a modern day Grateful Dead, Phish also has a very dedicated cult-like following, many of whom have traveled all across the country to be at their band’s side. With absolutely no mainstream exposure, Phish has managed to sell over eight million albums and DVD’s in the United States alone. Rolling Stone Magazine called them “the most important band of the Nineties.”
Their history is rich. They’ve seen the highest of highs but also the lowest of lows. The current state of most outdoor music festivals, like Bonnaroo, have been modeled after the famous Phish festivals, but also some of the first festivals like Woodstock, Monterey Pop and Newport Folk. Bonnaroo also includes many of the same workers who have spent much of their life on the road with Phish, including stage and road crews, and vendors.
Pack up your grilled cheese and veggie burritos, but leave your bongs and other unmentionables at home, for Phish are coming back to Cincinnati!