Phish

By the time of the live recording on December 31, 2011, Phish had just released their album "Joy" in 2009, which was their first studio album since their reunion in 2009 after a five-year hiatus. The band, known for their eclectic style and improvisational live performances, was firmly re-establishing their place in the music scene, particularly with a series of successful tours. The New Year’s Eve concert at Madison Square Garden is a signature event for Phish, showcasing their ability to blend complex musical compositions with engaging stage antics, which is exemplified in the seamless transitions in the "Steam → Auld Lang Syne → Down with Disease" sequence performed during this show. Notably, Phish is known for their unique approach to live performances, often including extended jamming and improvisation, making each show distinct. This concert further solidified their reputation as one of the premier live acts in the jam band genre.

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