Phish’s Trey Anastasio Shares the Stage With the Los Angeles Philharmonic

Phish have become one of the most successful rock bands over the past three decades in part by learning to explore and adapt their eclectic sound. It comes as no surprise that their music would translate well in an orchestral setting, and that’s just what frontman Trey Anastasio did Saturday night (March 10).

Rolling Stone gave a detailed account of the show, which saw Anastasio team up with the Los Angeles Philharmonic for a one-time performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in L.A. This marks the fourth time the Phish singer has been involved with an orchestra after stints in Atlanta, Denver and Pittsburgh earlier this year. The set was comprised of many Phish classics and selections from Anastasio’s solo work.

The songs were rearranged symphonic-ally by classical arranger Don Hart, who’s worked with Martina McBride, Collective Soul and Lyle Lovett. As Benjy Eisen from RS reports, nothing compares to Hart’s compositions with Anastasio. The vibe could go from subtle ballads to sweeping scores that would make John Williams proud.

Phish tracks that have taken on new identities include ‘First Tube’, ‘Water in the Sky’ and the Roxy Music-inspired ‘Brian and Robert’. Many Phish fans do not care much for ‘Brian and Robert’ as it’s the opposite of everything they adore: a slow ballad that you can’t dance to while letting loose at your favorite music festival. However, it fit right in Saturday night as part of this unique experience.

“It’s impossible to describe what an honor it is to be playing on this stage,” Anastasio told the audience, showing his genuine admiration of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. “This is the greatest sounding room I’ve ever been in.”