POP MUSIC REVIEWS : Phish Hooks Technique, but Not Emotional Depth

It was easy enough to be impressed with Phish’s musical chops Monday at the Wiltern Theatre as the band skillfully blended bluegrass, rock, blues and jazz in a well-received show filled with improvisational jams.

In front of a Fillmore-style psychedelic backdrop, the Vermont quartet stretched out musically, playing interesting although occasionally self-indulgent versions of its offbeat, progressive songs and singing two a cappella tunes without microphones that commanded an attentive silence. The band also showed a refreshing sense of humor: Guitarist Trey Anastasio and bassist Mike Gordon jumped up and down in unison at one point during the show, and Anastasio even sang part of one song into a bullhorn.

It’s that sense of the absurd, combined with a reputation for playing marathon concerts filled with innovative cross-genre jamming that has won Phish its loyal following of “Phishheads.” Those fans hung on the band’s every note Monday, and, complete with swirling guitar and whirling audience members, the concert had a pleasant, ‘60s-type vibe.

But although Phish’s jazzier material was exciting, its attempts at finding a groove felt halfhearted at times. So intent were the band’s members on showing off their musical prowess that some of their usually charming songs meandered off into instrumental doodling, making for a technically excellent show that lacked emotional depth.