God Street Wine's (GSW) recent performance at the Dead Of Summer Music Festival in Manchester, Vermont, marked a significant moment in the jam band community. The highlight of their set was a debut rendition of Phish's classic song, 'The Wedge'. This performance is particularly intriguing for several reasons, and it's worth delving into the details to understand why.
A Jam Band Reunion
GSW, formed in the 1980s, shares a similar history with Phish, who rose to fame in the 1990s jam scene. Both bands have built their careers on relentless touring, creating a deep connection between the two. The fact that GSW's guitarist, Lo Faber, and drummer, Tom "Tomo" Osander, are from Princeton, New Jersey, adds an extra layer of significance, as it's also the hometown of Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio. This shared background sets the stage for an interesting collaboration.
The Wedge: A Classic Reimagined
'The Wedge' was first introduced by Phish in 1992 and released on their album 'Rift' the following year. The song's debut in Vermont, Phish's home state, makes this performance even more special. GSW's rendition, however, took a different approach. They stretched out the song, allowing for an expansive jam that strayed far from the original structure. This interpretation is fascinating because it showcases how different bands can put their unique spin on a classic, creating something new while still paying homage to the original.
A Setlist Full of Fan Favorites
GSW's set at the festival was a journey through their extensive catalog, featuring fan favorites like 'Hammer And A Spike', 'Mile By Mile', and 'Driving West'. The band also paid tribute to Bob Weir with a cover of the Grateful Dead's 'Cassidy' and explored Pink Floyd territory with 'Wot's... Uh The Deal'. This diverse set list demonstrates GSW's versatility and their ability to connect with a wide range of audiences.
The Wedge: A Possible Permanent Addition
One of the most intriguing aspects of this performance is the potential for 'The Wedge' to become a permanent fixture in GSW's setlist. The band's rendition received a positive response, and it's possible that this cover will be a regular feature in their future shows. This development is exciting for fans of both Phish and GSW, as it creates a new bridge between the two bands and their dedicated followers.
A New Chapter in Jam Band History
GSW's debut of 'The Wedge' at the Dead Of Summer Music Festival is more than just a performance; it's a moment in jam band history. It highlights the enduring appeal of classic songs and the creativity that can arise when different bands reinterpret them. This performance also underscores the importance of shared roots in the jam band community, where collaborations and reinterpretations can lead to exciting new developments.
In conclusion, God Street Wine's performance of 'The Wedge' is a testament to the power of musical reinterpretation and the enduring legacy of classic jam band songs. It's a moment that will resonate with fans of both Phish and GSW, and it sets the stage for future collaborations and innovations in the jam band scene.
