I figure that 1999, and specifically Fall '99, is the least represented era of Phish once you get past 1992; only the Camden show and 7/31/99 have seen official release (and the Japan show was for an earthquake benefit; you could also argue that Camden wouldn't have been released without that admittedly impressive Chalkdust), which means that only the spreadsheet hunters/tape traders and those that were there know what treasures that run provided. I have a great deal of affection for ambient Phish - the spaced-out, atmospheric, Page-driven jams sound great through headphones - and over the past week or so I've been trying to figure out which show I'd consider the best of the run.

Boise probably has the best reputation out of the fall tour, mainly due to the exceptional AC/DC Bag that anchors the second set. I don't think we need another description - there are 3 other reviews here that do the job quite well - and instead I'll point out that the rest of the second set is no slouch either. Gumbo is the other highlight of this five-song second set, with its razor-sharp funk workout (did that song benefit from the Great Funk Revolution of '97, or what??) and inspired Another One Bites The Dust jam. DWD burns white hot and Frankenstein is its usual great self, and a two-song encore that includes a well-played Simple and always-welcome Hello My Baby rounds things off in style. The first set is fine, but not essential; however, the energy of all the performances make the listening that much easier, especially on the opening Chalkdust and What's The Use?.

I personally don't think this is the best show of the run (there are shows that are better from start to finish), but it definitely has the best jam of the run and possibly the year, and a second set that rewards extra listens. Not much ambiance here, but it doesn't matter with all the great music they did play. Definitely recommended - at the very least, hear the AC/DC Bag.