Phish Frontman's Big Band May 13, 2003 - The South End (Wayne State) By Larissa Barlow Album Review - Plasma Trey's new live solo CD features Phish-like sounds and much more. When you've fronted the one of the most influential bands in rock history for the past 18 years and then decided to come out with a solo album, people will wonder if you have what it takes to go at it alone. In Trey Anastasio's case, guitarist, vocalist and frontman of the ever popular Phish, he's got the talent and the band to back up a solo record and live album. Releasing his self-titled debut in 2002 on Electra records, Anastasio promptly put together a ten-member band and hit the road in Phish style. With a five-person horn section, three people on the rhythm section, a keyboardist and Anastasio taking care of guitar and vocals, the band set out to produce a memorable live show. And memorable it was. Touring through the summer and fall of 2002, Anastasio recorded every sound the band made. From rehearsals to live shows to converging in the studio, there was so much recorded music that a live album was without question. Now with "Plasma," Anastasio brings home the live music created over the relentless tour, proving that incessant recording does pay off. What is found in this two disk compilation of over two hours of music is a cohesive mixture of funk, rhythm and a hint of Afro-Cuban influence. The groove of each moment of music is unique onto itself, building upon the stellar guitar playing of Anastasio. While the man himself is nothing to scoff at, taking a look at the band is certainly in order. Creating what they term 'structured improvisation,' Anastasio relies on the raw talent of his musicians to play off each other and build on the songs they've already written. In a live situation, this could be disastrous for anyone not on their game. But for the collection of elite musicians Anastasio took on the road, it's just another day at the office. Trumpeter Jennifer Hartswick, saxophonists Dave Grippo and Peter Apfelbaum, flutist Russ Remington and trombonist Andy Moroz make up the horn section. Through a skillful mixture of playing and mutual understanding, the horns seem to come together in a way that generates a fiery blast of emotional consciousness. Bassist Tony Markellis, drummer Russ Lawton and percussionist Cyro Baptista - the only non-Vermont native in the band - form the rhythm section that blows you away with polished beats and vibrant, eclectic sounds. Keyboardist Ray Paczkoswki rounds out the band, making this assorted group a non-stop music making machine. The first disk contains a traditional song format while the second disk is more instrumental and improvisational in nature. The most remarkable song on the second disk is "Inner Tube;" a compilation of several live performances all rolled into one grove filled funk pulse. The band collectively shares writing credits for this song, which spans over 20 minutes. But what makes this track so incredible is the way you can hear the musicians feeding off each other to create one improvised note after another, while still maintaining a solid rhythmic unity. "Plasma" is a work of art in the purist sense. With seven previously unreleased tracks, a cover of the Phish song "Magilla" and Bob Marley's "Small Axe," this founding Phish member has plenty to offer on his solo live album that will appeal to Phishheads and big band lovers alike. Article © 2003 The South End (Wayne State)