Trey Bien: Anastasio Goes Solo, Sharply May 2, 2002 - The Hartford Courant by John M. Moran Album Review - Trey Anastasio Trey Anastasio is no Phish out of water. The guitar wunderkind is best-known for his musical work in Phish, Vermont's most important export since Cherry Garcia ice cream. But now that the band has disbanded, at least temporarily, Anastasio is exploring new musical horizons. The latest result is a new self-titled solo album, and it sparkles. Sure, the dozens songs on this disc have Phishy overtones, including the jazzy dissonance, the often-frantic pace and the surreal lyrics. But Anastasio is also showing a more mature and sophisticated touch here, using fewer notes to say more. Phish is noted for its live performances, but the solo album demonstrates that Anastasio has some considerable studio chops as well. The arrangements and performances are needle-sharp. The songs visit an assortment of musical terrains. "Cayman Review" offers a funky blues groove. "Push on 'Til the Day" counters with a medium-tempo rocker. "Flock of Words" changes the pace with a slow, soft ballad. Among his guests on the disc are Dana Colley of Morphine, Rob Volo of Deep Banana Blackout and Nicholas Payton, whom he first met at a Connecticut Forum event in Hartford last fall. Anastasio may well be recharging his batteries while he prepares for Phish to regroup. But for Phish fans, this solo album will surely make the wait easier to take.