International Report
Edited by jambands@jambands.com
Editor's note- international jam band fans WE NEED YOU! Please float us
some articles on what's happening where you are- send them to Evan
Lombardi, newmando@hotmail.com
Will Phish Ever Swim North?
The question that always seems to circulate around the Canadian jam scene
is: When will Phish come back to Canada? The band has not played a Canadian
city since the fall of 1993 when they played Toronto's Concert Hall. Many
Canadian fans have felt jilted by the band and have had to endure long
drives, border hassles and annoying toll roads to see their beloved Phish.
I recently read in The Schvice that Phish would be doing a book signing in
Chicago on the weekend of the eighth of November. I decided that I would
take the journey and ask the band face to face as to why they do not come
to Canada anymore. I called my friend, we ordered tickets and were on our
way to the Windy City. We waited anxiously at the bookstore for the band to
appear, we secured ourselves in line and passed the time by contemplating
our questions that we would address the band. I knew my question, I recited
it in my head making sure I wouldn't mess it up when I got to speak to
them.
The moment came and after exchanging pleasantries and shaking hands with
Trey Anastasio I addressed the question. "When will you guys come to
Canada"? I'd love to man", Trey replied, but you'll have to ask our tour
manager." So after meeting the rest of the band I approached tour manager
John Paluska and repeated the question that was already embedded in my
mind. He told me not to expect the band anytime soon because the band
already has a set schedule for most of the venues and that Canada wasn't in
the plans. I hung my head and walked away when I darted back into line and
told Trey that our beer was stronger and our hockey was better (he's an
avid hockey fan) and he smiled. It was my last attempt to lure the band.
There are always rumors circulating that Phish would be coming to Canada.
Every time a tour is announced Phish fans hold their breath in anticipation
of a Canadian date. Well, unfortunately it won't be any time soon but keep
asking the band through email and any method possible and maybe, maybe
they'll give in.
