Music Munchers - Farmhouse by Phish

Product Review
Filled with pretty melodies, delicate strumming, and concise, focused, melodic tunes, Phish's eighth studio record marks a bit of a departure from the norm, but not as much of a departure as many might think. For one thing, 1996's Billy Breathes moved in a similar direction--to the delight of casual fans and the dismay of many Phish fanatics. For another, even at their most frenetic and far-reaching, the band has always shown a keen pop sensibility, even if it was merely a chance to catch their breath. Make no mistake: most of the songs on Farmhouse are wonderfully, irresistibly catchy, and often quite lovely. This was clearly singer and guitarist Trey Anastasio's baby from the get-go, and he fills the album with some of his most appealing compositions. And as usual, there's a diverse range of styles, from straight pop to country soul to easy funk to gentle balladry. That said, fans used to hearing these songs live will most likely be disappointed by Farmhouse. Too often, you find yourself waiting for the explosive jam that never happens, and when it does, as on "Piper," it seems oddly out of place. Ironically, the final song, the cunning instrumental "First Tube," reminds you what you've been missing all along--bite. In the long run, this is not the album that Phish will be remembered for, playing away from what makes them unique, but as you find your toes tapping and your mouth humming along, you realize that it's certainly an enjoyable listen and satisfying in its own way. --Marc Greilsamer

If you want to listen to a Phish CD and see what Phish's all about, than this is the CD to get. This CD has so many amazing songs that you will easily understand why it is one of their best CD's ever and why Phish is such a great band. The CD first starts with the great song Farmhouse and if this doesn't hook you then there's still Heavy Things, one of the only Phish songs I've heard on the radio, and one of there best songs ever. These two songs first got me started on Phish, so you will probably like them too, but there are also other terrific songs like my personal favorites, which are the softer song Dirt and the terrific instrumental First Tube. However, it's not just those four songs that are great, the whole CD is perfect, and I mean every single song. You do not find a perfect CD that often, but this is definitely one! Of course, if you want to hear Phish's live stuff that is fine too and you will find some great live CD's too. However, this has to be one, if not their best, studio album yet recorded, so give Farmhouse a much-deserved chance. Comment | Permalink | (Report this)