'Billy Breathes' fresh air October 31, 1996 - The Post and Courier (Charleston, SC) By Mary Ann Cook Album Review - Billy Breathes Phish is one of the most inventive, intelligent and talented bands of our time. Its epic, symphony-like songs and extended, improvisational jams have impressed live listeners all over the world. So much so that diehard fans will follow Phish from show to show just to see what they'll do next. And then there's the studio. Phish has released numerous albums, on all of which the band has struggled to capture its true sound. The last one, 'A Live One,' finally accomplished that goal. So fans wondered what was left for the band to do. Phish answered with "Billy Breathes." "Billy Breathes," Phish's seventh and latest release, is an album whose name says it all, as it captures all the hesitation, excitement and anticipation of a new breath. It also proves that Phish has not given up on its endless quest to find new musical direction. The songs on "Billy Breathes are lyrical, light and airy, a sound quite different from anything Phish has ever done. This is not surprising, though, as the Vermont-based quartet has always taken listeners through new and uncharted musical territory. Phish is made up of four guys who were lucky enough to find each other after Trey Anastasio posted signs at his college 13 years ago seeking musicians. Anastasio plays guitar and vocals, Mike Gordon vibrates the bass, Page McConnell tickles the ivories, and Jon Fishman hammers on the drums. On "Billy Breathes," the energy rock side of the band is cleverly disguised in tamer, groovy, experimental songs that have an acoustic flavor and a down-home feel. 'Free,' the first track, is a light, radio-friendly tune with a hard edge. 'Taste' is a playful and jazzy tune that will probably be recognized by fans who've seen recent live shows. The instrumental 'Cars, Trucks and Buses,' takes listeners fast forward through big city traffic and then suddenly...stops. Journey over. 'Theme From the Bottom' thumps with underwater rhythms and features a typical Phish live move, an a cappella conclusion. 'Bliss' serenely slides into the melodic, calming charm of 'Billy Breathes,' which features a gorgeous solo from Trey. It's the kind of song that stays in your head after hearing it, like the taste of good wine on the palate after the last drop has been drunk. The last three songs on 'Billy Breathes' have different names and brief pauses in between, but they are all one long song. 'Swept Away' is an ethereal beginning that clears the path for the deep and intricate downward spiral of 'Steep.' Then the music begins to climb back up to lofty heights, finally reaching an apex with Trey booming through on final track: 'Oh! To be Prince Caspian/Afloat upon the waves.' The song ends in a celebration of life, music and all that is good. "Billy Breathes" is soothing, like the sound of the ocean and a sweet lullaby rolled into one. Phishhead or not, this is a must-buy CD. Article © 1996 The Post and Courier (Charleston, SC)