Helping Friendly Podcast - Episode: Mt. Rushmore: AC/DC Bag
Release Date: August 13, 2025

Introduction & Housekeeping

The episode begins with the hosts, Brian, Megan, and RJ, welcoming listeners back to the Helping Friendly Podcast (HFPod). They acknowledge their dedicated listeners and power listeners of the week, highlighting Tony for reaching 380 Instagram followers and giving a shoutout to the Blue Sky community for creating impressive statistical graphs related to the podcast's discussions.

Brian [00:32]: "It is Mount Rushmore time and today, today is a CDC bag."

Megan [01:39]: "If you like math and you like nerdy fish stuff, you need to follow Age of POD on Blue Sky."

Main Topic: Mount Rushmore for "AC/DC Bag"

The primary focus of the episode centers on selecting the top four performances of the song "AC/DC Bag" by Phish, effectively creating a "Mount Rushmore" of the song's best renditions. The hosts delve deep into the history, variations, and significance of different live performances, aiming to determine which versions deserve a spot on this prestigious list.

1. 11/21/97 - Hampton Coliseum, Hampton Roads, Virginia

This version is lauded as a groundbreaking performance where "AC/DC Bag" transitions into an expansive 25-minute jam. The band explores diverse musical landscapes, incorporating elements reminiscent of Machine Gun, Hendrix, and Miles Davis. This rendition signifies a pivotal moment where Phish showcased their ability to transform a straightforward rock tune into an intricate, exploratory jam.

Brian [14:26]: "This is like Fish in peak power era. It's just unbelievable and significant because it's really the first time it's really stretched out like that."

Megan [04:12]: "It feels like we've been busy. It feels like it's been a long time."

2. 12/30/97 - Madison Square Garden (MSG), New York

Considered by the hosts as one of the best Phish shows ever, this version contrasts the sprawling jam of Hampton with a more rhythmically tight and groove-oriented performance. The band exhibits exceptional cohesion, blending elements of Euro dance grooves with live rock dynamics, creating a seamless and captivating experience for the audience.

RJ [31:31]: "This is number second best show of all time. So number second best show of all time."

Megan [34:39]: "This is like subterranean jam sessions. This is like, what does the minor key do to a man?"

3. 09/14/99 - Boise, Idaho

The Boise Bag is celebrated as one of Phish's most beloved jams. This rendition is praised for its multi-sectional approach, blending various styles and maintaining a perfect narrative arc. The hosts recount personal anecdotes and emotional connections to this version, highlighting its significance in both musical complexity and fan impact.

RJ [45:47]: "This jam goes through like eight different styles of music. You've got that like CD groove based, 97 Hades energy to it."

Megan [48:01]: "It has the most perfect narrative arc of any jam that Fish has ever played."

4. 08/11/24 - Bethel, New York

Representing the modern era, the Bethel version showcases Phish's evolved tightness and dynamic range. This performance is lauded for its commanding presence, intricate repetition, and seamless blend of melodic grooves with ambient sections. The hosts emphasize how this version encapsulates Phish's growth and their ability to maintain excellence over decades.

Brian [57:45]: "This was a hard one for me to leave off and I just find it so beautiful and I love how minimal it is."

Megan [58:52]: "It's on my list, too. I think it's incredible."

Fan Vote & Controversies

The episode addresses the fan voting process for selecting the top four versions. While some listeners advocate for including specific performances due to their historical context or personal significance, the hosts maintain their selections based on musical excellence and the transformative nature of each jam. They discuss the challenges of balancing fan expectations with their criteria for the Mount Rushmore selections.

RJ [64:42]: "I can't. Part of the reason it's, I think the best Fish jam ever is it's so singular."

Brian [62:01]: "We had the 11/21/97, 12/30/97, and then there was a tie for third."

Conclusion & Teasers for Next Episode

As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the exceptional nature of "AC/DC Bag" and its role in Phish's legacy. They tease the next episode, which will focus on "Sigma Oasis," and encourage listeners to participate in voting and leave reviews on Apple Podcasts. The hosts express excitement for upcoming discussions and continue to engage with their passionate fanbase.

Brian [68:03]: "So next week we're going to be back with Sigma Oasis Rushmore."

Megan [68:35]: "Can't wait. It's coming, guys. It's. Can't wait."

Notable Quotes

• Brian [00:32]: "It is Mount Rushmore time and today, today is a CDC bag."

• Megan [01:39]: "If you like math and you like nerdy fish stuff, you need to follow Age of POD on Blue Sky."

• RJ [31:31]: "This is number second best show of all time. So number second best show of all time."

• Megan [48:01]: "It has the most perfect narrative arc of any jam that Fish has ever played."

• Brian [62:01]: "We had the 11/21/97, 12/30/97, and then there was a tie for third."

Key Takeaways

• "AC/DC Bag" is a seminal song in Phish's live repertoire, with multiple versions that have left significant impacts on both the band and its fans.

• The Hampton (11/21/97) and MSG (12/30/97) versions are celebrated for their expansive jamming and tight, groove-oriented performances, respectively.

• The Boise (09/14/99) rendition is revered for its multi-sectional narrative and emotional depth, solidifying its place as a fan favorite.

• The modern Bethel (08/11/24) performance showcases Phish's continued evolution and mastery in live jamming.

• The selection process for the Mount Rushmore editions balances musical quality with fan engagement, highlighting the intricate relationship between the band and its audience.

Final Thoughts

This episode of the Helping Friendly Podcast offers an in-depth exploration of one of Phish's most iconic songs, "AC/DC Bag." Through passionate discussions, personal anecdotes, and detailed analyses of various live performances, the hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the song's legacy and its essential moments. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Phish's music, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and reflections on what makes "AC/DC Bag" a cornerstone of Phish's live shows.