I was at this show and was more than willing to wait out the storm, which was an impressive storm to say the least. After the incredible Timber (a personal favorite), I was ready for anything. Once the rain delay first commenced then ended 50 minutes later, I was prepared to be floored by a band that I know loves their fans and is usually eager to reward (or at least attempt to reward) their loyal followers with musical bliss . I mean, the lawn was completely empty when they came back out. I had a strong sense that those who remained were all as in love with this band as I am and were expecting their patience to be rewarded. I would assume the same could be said of the webcast viewers. All these factors combined would seem to have led to an epic post rain-delay musical onslaught for the ears of those dedicated enough to stick around.
However, what i got was somewhat lacking. Don't get me wrong, I had a great time. I enjoyed every song played. Unfortunately, a lot of people on this thread are right. There was something missing. Its hard to say exactly what it was, and attempting to describe it is foolish IMHO. What i think will ultimately be said about this show is that it was more of a missed opportunity than anything else. The songs were crushed, every member played well, and the energy was never dropped. Basically, I think they had two choices. Give us an epic Type II onslaught or give us fire and energy that never dropped below a steady simmer. Unfortunately for those who love Type II goodness, they chose the latter. Fortunately for those who love Type I shredding, they didn't choose the former. My loyalties lie somewhere in between the two, maybe Type I.65.
In the end, this is one show. Its good, not legendary. And i think that's the problem many have. It was such a perfect opportunity for a legendary performance, but it just never materialized.
As for the comments about Phish being a "nostalgia act" I have to somewhat agree and also say that if you really want to light a fire under the band, call them that a few more times. They do not want and never will want to be thought of as a "nostalgia act." As I head to Charlotte and Raleigh the next few days, here's to hoping the boys heard that line loud and clear. If they realize that this might be what is happening to them, maybe they will blow our faces off soon.