Helping Friendly Podcast Episode Summary
Episode: 2025 Summer Tour Recaps: Columbus + Charleston
Release Date: July 14, 2025
Host/Author: Osiris Media
Duration: Approx. 70 minutes
Introduction
In this episode of the Helping Friendly Podcast (HFPod), hosts RJ, Brian, and Megan delve into detailed recaps of Phish’s 2025 summer tour stops in Columbus and Charleston. Skipping over advertisements and non-content segments, the trio offers insightful analysis, fan perspectives, and thoughtful discussions on the band's evolving performances.
Tour Analysis: Transition and Evolution
RJ initiates the conversation by framing the current tour as a period of significant transition for Phish. He posits that the band is entering a phase where they are stripping down to their core as a quartet, focusing on pure musical connection without the extensive use of effects and experimental sounds that characterized recent years.
RJ (06:47): "We're not going to do like a standard set 1, set 2, set 1, set 2 recap here. We're going to take this idea that I've put forward, what our responses are, and incorporate various jams that we're hearing these sort of ideas in."
RJ further elaborates on how this transition might affect the band's future, suggesting that Phish is seeking to rediscover their foundational sound while maintaining lengthy jams.
Consistency and High Points
Brian shares a balanced perspective, acknowledging both the high moments and inconsistencies in the tour's performances. He highlights specific shows in Columbus and Charleston as standout examples where Phish delivered exceptional flow and engaging jams.
Brian (11:48): "Columbus from this week and Charleston Night three... have really, really did that for me."
Brian also notes an increase in "busted outs"—rarely played songs—that contribute to the band's dynamic setlists.
Show Highlights: Columbus and Charleston
Megan and RJ provide detailed recaps of specific shows, emphasizing the quality of jams and the strategic incorporation of rare tracks. They compare these performances to previous tours, noting a shift towards more structured and cohesive sets.
Megan (16:02): "I think those are two really interesting areas to explore... we're in a pretty unprecedented spot right now."
Song Rotation and Bust Outs
A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Phish's song rotation, particularly the introduction of older or rarely played songs. Megan explains how these "bust outs" add variety but also raise questions about their impact on setlist consistency and overall show flow.
Megan (26:19): "But what's also happened is over the last 15 years, Fish has written 100 plus songs and a lot of those songs have fallen by the wayside."
Current Jamming Style: Length and Experimentation
The hosts analyze the nature of Phish's current jamming style, noting a trend towards shorter, more focused jams compared to the sprawling, experimental sessions of previous years. RJ suggests that this approach aligns with the band's effort to reconnect as a tight-knit group.
Brian (16:15): "Whenever they're doing that it says that they're interested in kind of transcendence and finding that place as an artist that you go when you're not thinking and when you just get to kind of be taken by the music."
Absence of Humor in Concerts
An intriguing aspect discussed is the noticeable reduction in humor and light-hearted interactions during Phish's performances. Megan reflects on how past shows incorporated more comedic elements, which seemingly are absent in the current tour, leading to a more serious and concentrated atmosphere.
Megan (40:39): "We're just not seeing as much of that fish goofiness that throughout their history."
Future Shows and Predictions
Looking ahead, the hosts speculate on what fans might expect in upcoming shows, particularly at major venues like The Man Center. They discuss potential song selections and the likelihood of incorporating fan-favorite jams and rare tracks.
Megan (61:27): "I think we're going to get a set long Mule Duel... Everything is going to be in amidst the Mule Duel."
Listener Engagement and Voicemail Episode
Towards the end of the episode, RJ announces a special voicemail episode scheduled for Friday, encouraging listeners to submit their thoughts and questions. This segment aims to foster greater community interaction and address fan inquiries directly.
RJ (37:00): "We're going to do a voicemailbag episode on Friday. So keep sending them in."
Closing Remarks
The hosts wrap up by reiterating their commitment to providing in-depth analysis and engaging content for Phish fans, ensuring that every show is thoroughly reviewed and discussed.
Brian (68:13): "This is definitely a tour that you want to check your least like most commonly played least scene because you're... You could probably get one which is kind of fun."
Notable Quotes:
- RJ (06:47): "We're not going to do like a standard set 1, set 2, set 1, set 2 recap here."
- Brian (11:48): "Columbus from this week and Charleston Night three... have really, really did that for me."
- Megan (26:19): "Fish has written 100 plus songs and a lot of those songs have fallen by the wayside."
- Megan (40:39): "We're just not seeing as much of that fish goofiness that throughout their history."
- RJ (37:00): "We're going to do a voicemailbag episode on Friday."
This episode provides a comprehensive look into Phish's 2025 summer tour, offering fans both analytical insights and a sense of community through upcoming interactive segments. Whether you're a long-time follower or new to Phish's dynamic performances, RJ, Brian, and Megan deliver a rich and engaging discussion that encapsulates the essence of the festival tour experience.