Phish playing record-setting 13-nights at Madison Square Garden
Phish has never had a Top 5 album. It’s never had a single on the Billboard Hot 100. But starting July 21, the Vermont jam rockers will play 13 concerts in 17 days at Madison Square Garden that will give them a piece of rock history.
“The Baker’s Dozen” run of shows will be the longest ever at the Garden for a band and the second-longest of any artist, behind only Billy Joel, whose ongoing record-setting run is currently at 43 and has at least five more shows scheduled this year.
What Phish’s singer-guitarist Trey Anastasio, keyboardist Page McConnell, bassist Mike Gordon and drummer Jon Fishman may lack in traditional radio support is more than made up for with the support of their fans.
Kenny Dennis of Locust Valley has seen Phish 51 times since 1998. “They are my favourite band,” said the 39-year-old dispatcher. “I’ve just never seen anything like them.”
Dennis offers one bit of advice to Phish newcomers: “Never miss a Sunday show. Sunday shows are always epic.”
Phish is making the most of technology on this run so that fans aren’t left out. Every show (including the three Sunday ones) will be available through LivePhish.com, either through a live webcast ($14.99 US for standard, $24.99 for HD), or a download ($9.95 to $19.95 depending on format) or a CD ($23). A special package is also available for those who want to watch all 13 shows online.