Phish Unveils Groove-Laden ‘Hey Stranger’ Single

Phish shared “Hey Stranger,” the track that opens their upcoming studio album, Evolve. The band’s 16th studio album and first since 2020’s Sigma Oasis arrives via JEMP Records/ATO on Friday, July 12.

Phish recorded Evolve at The Barn in Vermont during the fall of 2023. Longtime collaborators Vance Powell and Bryce Goggin produced the 12-track effort. Most of the songs featured on Evolve, including “Hey Stranger,” have been performed live by the band. Exceptions are “Valdese” and “Human Nature.”

Guitarist Trey Anastasio wrote “Hey Stranger” and initially released the song on his 2022 solo acoustic LP, Mercy. The full-band version is much different as the members of the group focus on the funky progression. Keyboardist Page McConnell adds synth the mix while Anastasio delivers a potent guitar solo and the rhythm section of bassist Mike Gordon and drummer Jon Fishman provides a tight pocket.

“Hey Stranger” is the third single from Evolve issued ahead of the album’s release. Phish previously unveiled the title track and “Oblivion.” While “Hey Stranger” was first performed live by the Trey Anastasio Band on May 7, 2022, Phish debuted the song at their December 29, 2022 concert at Madison Square Garden. Four additional versions followed including one at the last night of Phish's Sphere run this past April.

Stream Phish’s “Hey Stranger” single below: