JUNTA

Amazing that this album came out in 1988, right after the 80's wasteland. This album is as essential as many 70's prog masterpieces, but often gets overlooked because of its vintage and the settling of their sound seemingly after signing with Elektra (though retaining the extreme verstility and weirdness). Some parts sound a little like Jethro Tull, but Phish have a remarkably unique sound that holds together a great number of different stylistic influences. Phish has much instrumental virtuosity, in guitarist Trey Anastasio, drummer Jon Fishman, bassist Mike Gordon, and pianist Page McConnel. Fishman is extremely coordinated and ambidexterous, and his drumming has a light jazzy feel. Anastasio is sometimes melodic and sometimes discordant (where he reminds me of Jethro Tull). Phish have a distinctive and upbeat personality and this album is one that should not be passed up by any prog fan.

Highlights: Fluff's Travels, You Enjoy Myself, Divided Sky, Golgi Apparatus