Pro-Shot Video: Phish Shares Stellar ‘Chalk Dust Torture’ From The Gorge

Vermont-birthed quartet Phish are currently in the middle of their first-ever three-night stand at The Gorge Amphitheatre in George, Washington. One of the highlights from Friday’s show, and the tour thus far, was the 24-minute “Chalk Dust Torture” that opened the second set. The band rolled out professionally-shot video of the jam-filled “Chalk Dust.”

Phish explored various motifs as part of what has become a reliable jam vehicle in recent years. The first movement of Saturday’s “Chalk Dust” saw bassist Mike Gordon and drummer Jon Fishman lay down a solid foundation while guitarist Trey Anastasio fed angular leads through a envelope filter. Keyboardist Page McConnell’s electric piano work gave the jam a Pink Floyd feel. Gordon then led a move into a beautiful landscape that the quartet filled with blissful improvisation. Anastasio unleashed one delightful riff after another while McConnell painted around them with gorgeous grand piano melodies. Arms of fans flew in the air when Phish hit upon a surging climax before another round of deep and exciting improvisation brought the memorable “Chalk Dust” to its conclusion.

Watch Phish’s performance of “Chalk Dust Torture” from Friday night:

Phish returns to The Gorge on Sunday with a webcast available via LivePhish.com.