The next entry on my countdown is "Lawn Boy," the 1990 release for the uber-jamband, Phish. The reason I choose this album over Phish's other albums, many of which are also quite serviceable summer-albums, is the fact that Lawn Boy contains sprawling jams, and a sound that literally becomes a backdrop for whatever occasion it is being played. The songs all seem to blend into one musical tapestry, and their easy, breezy lyrics are light and fun, perfect for setting any party atmosphere.
Another great aspect of this album is that the songs do not merely sprawl and exist, they are also undeniably catchy. Songs are built around tight hooks and harmonies, and each one is balanced on a groovy, bouncy hop, thanks to drummer Jon Fishman.
This album is not necessarily a great pick for road trips, since only a handful of the songs provide great sing-along fodder, but this is a perfect choice for any cookout or outdoor party.
The best tracks on this album are:
"Split Open and Melt"-- This loose groove really comes alive in concert, but on this studio album, it is still phenomenal. With a blast of horns that conjure aural memories of James Brown, this funky jaunt is sure to set a laid-back atmosphere for any occasion.
"Run Like and Antelope"--One of the band's most beloved songs, this epic song (9:54) is Phish at well, their most Phish-esque, operating on all cylinders. This is a great song to provide the background for a day at the beach or a bonfire. It is one of the most perfect summer songs I have ever heard, and it is one of the driving forces for this album's inclusion on my list.
"Lawn Boy"-- The title track is also one of the most interesting songs on this album, as it gives the listener a glimpse into what the band may have been, had it existed in 1962 on the Vegas Strip. This is lounge music at its finest, and the dreamy lyrics make this song perfect for any late night chill-fest, whether you are star-gazing or sitting in the hot tub, this song seems to just decelerate the pace of life.
"Bouncing Around the Room"--- This song gets the nod, since it is my favorite song on the album, and is one of the only songs on the album that is a great sing-along candidate. The title of the song also essentially describes the song's energy, as it bounces steadily from beginning to end. This is another example of Phish's dream-like lyrics that put the listener at ease, and the tight and overlapping harmonies wash over even the most stressed-out audience.
This album is a must-listen for anyone and everyone this summer.
Stayed tuned for the remaining 3 albums on the countdown!
Peace Love and Understanding
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