Phish stays afloat

By Nate Seltenrich

The sharks are looking hungry, but Phish is still swimming with "Round Room," their 10th studio release. This is certainly not one of their best, and it takes more than a little patience and dedication to make it through all 77 minutes. On the upside, it's jam-packed with new material, has a cool album design, and contains some clever lyrics.

The highlight in terms of all-out, no holds barred, wake up the neighbors jamming comes in the very first song, entitled "Pebbles and Marbles." It's a beautifully constructed piece that shows that even though they are now in their 20th year, Phish can still do well what they've always done best.

The title track, which comes third, is also a more rousing number, but in a bouncy, playful, and jam-less sort of way. As it offers something new and fresh, "Round Room" instills in the first-time listener a sense of promise for the quality of the rest of the album.

However, the guitars, bass, piano and drums disappointingly ramble on for another 60 minutes without much direction and with only a few stirring moments.

Some may contend that Phish can get away with that, but over the years they've proven that they can do much better. There's a thin line between chill and boring, and a few of the tracks seem to teeter-totter between realms.

At this point in their career, it's clear that Phish deserve only the utmost respect for their love of music, commitment to their band, and proficient musicianship and songwriting. Although their loyal fan base will never desert them, Phish won't be turning many new heads with "Round Room." B-