Phish: Round Room scene January 7, 2003 - 90.5 KCSU By Daniel Higley Album Review - Round Room Earlier this year, in the Trey Anastasio barn/recording studio in Vermont, the latest Phish album was born. The songs for this record were made somewhat by accident. When the band got together to rehearse for their upcoming tour, someone was, thankfully, recording. The band liked what they heard from the first few playbacks, decided to make an album and finished it in less than a week. Round Room is right on track with its two predecessors, although it does seem to be a bit looser, and more relaxed. This album might turn off a few loyal listeners, but overall the soft beauty of the tracks should be appreciated by most Phish-heads. Strong tracks include the gorgeous "Walls of the Cave" and the mellow "Friday". The album does have a few upbeat tracks, such as "46 Days" and "Mexican Cousin", which have the energy I know certain Phish-heads are looking for. There are certain fans that seem to want the same album from their favorite band over and over. This record represents where the boys from Phish are at in their lives, and proves that they are still creating music for themselves that can be enjoyed by the masses. One guy I talked to this week about Phish said that "he was really only interested in their live shows, and that the albums were just a postcard to remind him of live Phish." Whatever your opinion about this band may be, this record makes me believe that when the songs are played on the upcoming tour it will win over most of the doubters. Round Room is strong enough to attract new fans and appease the majority of the old fan base. Copyright © 2003 KCSU FM