Page McConnell opened his west coast tour this weekend with a performance at San Diego, CAs House of Blues. Like his recent east coast dates, McConnell mostly drew from his new self-titled solo album, with the occasional cover or stay Phish song thrown in for good measure. Before playing with his band at High Sierra this Sunday, McConnell played one of the festivals trademark playshops. The keyboardist participated in an unmoderated Q & A with audience members and offered solo versions of Elton Johns Tiny Dancer (which he debuted a night earlier in Los Angeles), Maid Marian, Army of One and Strange Design. He also undusted Wading in the Velvet Sea, which has existed in a state of semi-retirement since McConnells teary version at Coventry and honored a request for the piano ending of Squirming Coal. As for his Q & A, McConnell said no comment to a question concerning Phishs reunion and admitted to liking Hen-Dazs more than Ben & Jerrys. For more on McConnell, be sure to order a copy of the July issue of Relix .