The Andrew J. Brady Music Center in Cincinnati came alive with an unmistakable buzz of anticipation the night Trey Anastasio Band rolled into town. Fans had gathered early, filling the venue with a palpable energy that felt more like a family reunion than a typical concert crowd. By the time the lights dimmed and the first notes of “Wolfman’s Brother” rang out, the room was practically vibrating with excitement. From the first chord, it was clear that this wasn’t just a band playing songs; it was a celebration of music, improvisation, and sheer joy.
The first set launched into “Wolfman’s Brother,” a Phish classic that immediately set the tone for a night of playful unpredictability and deep grooves. Trey’s guitar tone was rich and warm, cutting through the mix without ever overpowering the rest of the band. The jam stretched and swirled, with Anastasio weaving through complex lines effortlessly, while the rhythm section—anchored by a solid bass and drums—kept the momentum grounded but flexible. You could tell right away that the band was in sync, their chemistry palpable.
Transitioning seamlessly into “Pigtail,” a solo-era Trey composition, the crowd got a taste of his post-Phish explorations. The song’s tight structure contrasted beautifully with the expansive jams of “Wolfman’s Brother,” offering a more introspective, melodic side of Anastasio’s repertoire. Following that, “Mozambique” lifted the energy again with its infectious rhythm and bright horn accents, making it impossible for anyone to stay still. The band’s brass section added an extra layer of punch, highlighting Trey’s arrangements in a way that made the song feel both familiar and refreshed.
“Evolve” and “In Rounds” slowed the pace slightly, giving the audience a moment to appreciate the subtle nuances of Trey’s guitar work. Both songs are deceptively complex, with layered melodies that demand attention, and the band delivered every note with precision. “Shade” then pulled us back into Phish territory, and it was like a musical reunion; fans sang along, each note met with cheers that echoed through the venue. Trey’s ability to pivot between his solo material and Phish classics felt effortless, and the audience responded with genuine enthusiasm, clearly appreciating the balance.
The energy never dipped as the set moved into “Set Your Soul Free” and then “Bouncing Around the Room.” The latter, a Phish staple, brought a communal feel to the venue, with fans singing every word in unison. “Simple Twist Up Dave” offered a return to Trey’s solo catalog, featuring intricate guitar lines that showcased his virtuosity without ever feeling showy. The set closed with “Sand,” a song that manages to be both soothing and hypnotic, leaving the crowd ready and eager for more.
The second set opened with “Money, Love and Change,” a lively solo-era song with a groove that immediately pulled the audience in. Trey’s guitar work here was particularly inspired, threading melodic lines with rhythmic precision. “Monsters” followed, bringing a dose of Phish’s quirky, improvisational energy. It was clear the band was feeding off the crowd’s energy as they built the song into an expansive jam, full of unexpected twists and turns.
“Last Tube” injected pure adrenaline into the room, its driving beat and catchy riffs getting the audience moving and shouting along. “46 Days” slowed things down just enough to create a beautiful contrast, allowing Trey to stretch out a melodic solo over the tight rhythm section. The highlight of the night came with “Twist,” a Phish jam dedicated to Cincinnati native Bootsy Collins. The funk-infused groove and playful improvisation had the entire crowd dancing, while Trey’s humorous nods to Bootsy’s signature style (“Bootsy fucking Collins!”) added a layer of communal fun that felt spontaneous and authentic.
The set continued with “Shine,” a solo-era tune that showcased Anastasio’s lyrical and melodic sensibilities. Then came “Blaze On,” a fan favorite from Phish’s catalog, which transitioned into full band introductions. Each member got their moment, and the audience responded with warm applause, a testament to the individual talent that makes the ensemble so compelling. The second set wrapped up with “Push On ’Til the Day,” a contemplative yet uplifting song that balanced introspection and energy, leaving fans buzzing with anticipation for the encore.
The encore opened with “Stash,” a Phish classic that demonstrated Trey’s masterful ability to build tension and release it in satisfying waves. The improvisation was adventurous but always grounded in the song’s core theme, and the audience hung on every note. Closing the night was “Carini,” another Phish staple, with a playful lyric change referencing Bootsy Collins’ funky bass. The room erupted in laughter and cheers, a perfect, celebratory capstone to a night of music, improvisation, and connection.
Trey Anastasio Band’s performance at The Andrew J. Brady Music Center was more than just a concert—it was an immersive experience that highlighted Trey’s dual identity as both a solo artist and a Phish veteran. The setlist struck a careful balance between solo work and Phish classics, offering fans a journey through Trey’s musical evolution. Each song was given space to breathe and expand, and the band’s chemistry was evident in every improvisational flourish and seamless transition.
The crowd’s energy mirrored the band’s dynamism, with moments of quiet appreciation giving way to eruptions of dancing, clapping, and sing-alongs. The Andrew J. Brady Music Center, with its intimate yet spacious design, provided an ideal environment for this type of concert: close enough to feel connected to the musicians, but large enough to contain the energy of a raucous crowd. Sound quality was top-notch, with each instrument coming through clearly while maintaining the warmth and fullness essential to Trey’s guitar-driven sound.
What stood out most was the spontaneity. Even in songs fans had heard dozens of times, Trey and the band found new corners to explore, reminding everyone why live music remains an irreplaceable experience. Whether it was the playful nods to Bootsy Collins, the intricate guitar solos, or the extended jams that let each band member shine, the night was a testament to the artistry and heart that Trey Anastasio brings to every performance.
By the time the lights came up, it felt like everyone had been part of something special. Conversations in the lobby buzzed with excitement as fans replayed their favorite moments and debated which jam had been the most inspired. There was a collective acknowledgment that what had just unfolded was more than a concert—it was a living, breathing testament to the enduring power of music and the joy it can bring when shared in a room full of kindred spirits.
Setlist:
Set 1:
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Wolfman’s Brother (Phish cover)
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Pigtail (Trey Anastasio song)
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Mozambique (Trey Anastasio song)
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Evolve (Trey Anastasio song)
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In Rounds (Trey Anastasio song)
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Shade (Phish cover)
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Set Your Soul Free (Trey Anastasio song)
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Bouncing Around the Room (Phish cover)
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Simple Twist Up Dave (Trey Anastasio song)
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Sand (Phish cover)
Set 2:
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Money, Love and Change (Trey Anastasio song)
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Monsters (Phish cover)
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Last Tube (Trey Anastasio song)
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46 Days (Phish cover)
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Twist (Phish cover; jam dedicated to “Cincinnati native Bootsy fucking Collins”)
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Shine (Trey Anastasio song)
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Blaze On (Phish cover; followed by band introductions)
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Push On ‘Til the Day (Trey Anastasio song)
Encore:
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Stash (Phish cover)
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Carini (Phish cover; with “Bootsy had a funky bass” lyric change)
Overall, the Trey Anastasio Band delivered a night that felt both intimate and grand, meticulously crafted yet wonderfully unpredictable. Fans left the Andrew J. Brady Music Center with ears ringing, hearts full, and the reminder that live music—especially when it comes from a place of passion and connection—remains a profoundly transformative experience. Trey’s guitar work, the band’s tight performance, and the seamless blend of solo and Phish material made this a Cincinnati show to remember.