LAWN BOY

Many prog fans might not consider this prog in the traditional sense, but than again, since when was PROGRESSIVE music not considered prog? Isn't that what prog always used to be about? With that said, you're not going to find one cohesive style throughout this album (with the exception of the funk undertone.) Every song is brilliant in its own way and I can easily say that this is a masterpiece of progressive music and Phish's best written studio album in my opinion.

Squirming Coil- This song starts off with vocal and great melody. The focus here is the incredible musicianship. The instrumental parts of the song (with take up most of it) sound very jazz/fusion. A very light airy feel is present throughout the entire track.

Reba- This might be the best on the album and possibly phish finest moment. The song starts off with a funk feel and very fast, strange lyrics being sung. The majority of the song is composed of instrumental sections that are absolutely brilliant. Perfect time changes and changes of mood from light and airy to loud and angry. This is when phish really shine and display their intelligence and ability to convey emotions through their instrumental sections.

My Sweet One- It seems as if this song comes out of nowhere but it just increases the diversity of the band. It is 100% country for a couple short minutes with a nice jazz keyboard solo.

Split Open and Melt- Very strange and avan-garde sounding song with horn arranged by Trey that add to the weirdness of this song. The song reminds me of an acid-funk style that fits perfectly on the album.

the Oh Kee Pa Ceremony- An instrumental song representing bluegrass/country for under 2 minutes. The melody is very catchy, great guitar by Trey. The laughing in the background makes you wonder if they are even serious with this song. Nonetheless, it is great.

Bathtub Gin- Mainly resembles the same style as "Split Open and Melt." Acid-funk, great melodies.

Run Like an Antelope- Basically a highlight of Trey's incredible guitar playing. Time changes all over the place, a funk-rock feel to the majority of the song. If you are interested in hearing how good Trey is at guitar, than this song is for you. It's one of my favorites and it's a live staple for the band.

Lawn Boy- A nice jazz ballad to add to this diverse album. The guitar solo is perfect.

Bouncing Around the Room- Considered one of Phish's best known songs. A simple pop-rock song that echoes and works perfectly for the end of the album.

Overall its very hard to consider this album any one style specifically. They can pull off just about anything. It mostly can be considered jazz-fusion I guess, but that wouldn't entirely describe the diversity and overall madness of the album. Listening to an album like this makes me wonder why Phish was taken out of the Art Rock genre and put into prog related. The thing that non-phish fans don't generally understand is that Phish's studio works are (unlike most jam bands), well-thought out and very intricately written. Especially their two concept albums (Rift and Story of a Ghost), but that's another story.