Phish triumphs in "Story of the Ghost" October 27, 1998 - The Daily Campus (U. Connecticut) By Jen Clair Album Review - The Story of the Ghost For its newest release, Phish has stuck to what has made it famous among its loyal followers: a mellow jam style. "The Story of the Ghost," released today, is not at all like the more manufactured studio album "Hoist," but much more like a polished version of a concert jam. Like a Phish concert, Story is seamless, going from slow chill rhythms to fast paced guitar driven riffs without a blink of an eye. Think "Billy Breathes." It is no secret that Phish is an extremely talented group of musicians. Trey, Jon, Mike, and Page have brought a different sound to their music, as "Ghost" almost seems haunted. "Limb by Limb" is absolutely excellent. It is sure to be an energetic concert favorite. Trey sings lead vocals, which are echoed in the background, accompanied by peppy guitar and chants of "limb by limb." Also incredibly upbeat and addictive is "Water in the Sky," which has a very distinct blue grass sound, but the five stanzas of lines are too few, and make the listener yearn for more. "Roggae" combines circus images and an upbeat base to support trippy, smart lyrics. "If life were easy and not so fast / I wouldn't think about the past / I can't forget to turn the earth so both sides get their share / of darkness and of light," Phish croons. On the softer side is "Brian and Robert" is somber and short. "Wading in the Velvet Sea" follows this trend with excellent keyboard work and vocal harmonies. The only complaint about this album is the song length. Most songs average a short three minutes, while devoted Phish fans appreciate the extended length of the eight minute "Guyute." Article © 1998 The Daily Campus