In the wintery embrace of Shelburne, Vermont, on December 6, 1986, The Ranch became the epicenter of a Phish performance that would be etched into the annals of their storied career. This three-set marathon was not only a showcase of the band’s evolving musical prowess but also marked the debut of several iconic songs, making it a night of firsts and unforgettable moments.
The first set opened with the energetic groove of “Funky Bitch,” signaling the beginning of a musical journey that would span genres and eras. “Possum” and “Peaches en Regalia” followed, each setting the stage for the exploratory spirit that would define the evening.
“Makisupa Policeman -> Fluffhead” continued the set with a seamless transition, showcasing the band’s ability to navigate intricate compositions and improvisational segues.
The second set kicked off with the debut of “I Know a Little,” setting the tone for a set that would feature a blend of Phish originals and inspired covers. “Golgi Apparatus” and “Slave to the Traffic Light” showcased the band’s tight musical interplay, while the debut of “Light Up Or Leave Me Alone -> Camel Walk” added a touch of rock and roll to the mix.
A standout moment in the set was the debut of “Icculus,” featuring Steve Drebber on vocals. The band’s willingness to experiment with new material and embrace diverse influences was further highlighted by the debut of “Good Times Bad Times -> Skin It Back -> Cities.”
The third set was a tour de force, opening with “Mike’s Song” and venturing into unexpected territories with “The Little Drummer Boy” and “Whipping Post.” The debut of “She Caught the Katy and Left Me a Mule to Ride” added a bluesy flavor to the night, while “David Bowie -> Clod -> David Bowie” showcased the band’s improvisational dexterity.
The evening continued with a spirited “You Enjoy Myself,” followed by the debut of “Dog Log,” “Tush,” and “Sneakin’ Sally Through the Alley.” The set concluded with the whimsical “Prep School Hippie,” leaving the audience in awe of Phish’s ability to seamlessly weave through an eclectic array of musical landscapes.
This show at The Ranch on 12/06/1986 was a masterclass in musical exploration, a testament to Phish’s commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing the unexpected.
Setlist:
Set 1:
- Funky Bitch (First known Phish performance)
- Possum
- Peaches en Regalia
- Makisupa Policeman -> Fluffhead
Set 2:
5. I Know a Little (First known Phish performance)
- Golgi Apparatus > Slave to the Traffic Light
- Shaggy Dog > Light Up Or Leave Me Alone -> Camel Walk
- Jam > Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
- Back Porch Boogie Blues
- Icculus (Steve Drebber on vocals)
- McGrupp and the Watchful Hosemasters
- Good Times Bad Times -> Skin It Back -> Cities (First known Phish performances)
Set 3:
13. Mike’s Song -> The Little Drummer Boy
- Whipping Post
- She Caught the Katy and Left Me a Mule to Ride (First known Phish performance)
- AC/DC Bag
- David Bowie -> Clod > David Bowie
- You Enjoy Myself
- Dog Log (First known Phish performance)
- Tush (First known Phish performance) > Sneakin’ Sally Through the Alley
- Prep School Hippie
