"Your time is near, the mission's clear May 31, 1992 - Accesscable.com by Staff Album Review - Picture of Nectar The definitive studio-recorded example of Phish's incredible eclecticism, A Picture of Nectar seemingly aims to cover as much ground as possible. Brief and lengthy songs rest alongside one another without conflict, and even the gag tracks are worth hearing every time. Pacing is flawless, with the "Tweezer Reprise" closer coming out of "Catapult" perfectly. There's a number of jazzy instrumentals, and some truly rocking moments. But all the variety can be harmful to the experience. Unlike the almost-as-varied Billy Breathes, this CD sounds more like a compilation than an album. Released around the peak of Phish's touring (for three years, ending in '94, they played over a hundred shows annually), the level of material at which they were adept was great, and A Picture of Nectar documents what they had going on. Although the eclectic concerts would have been endlessly enjoyable, on compact disc more consistency of sound would have helped. Rating: ****