Joy [Red/Purple/Blue 2 LP]

After listening to JOY, one has to wonder whether hardcore Phish-heads, who've stuck with the band through thick and thin and bought literally millions of concert tickets, will be impressed by their 11th studio album. It is the group's first studio outing in five years--a reunion album. Joy was produced by Steve Lillywhite, who also helmed 1996's BILLY BREATHES. He's familiar enough with Phish to be able to get inside their sound, and to try to challenge their preconceptions without tinkering too much with the process of creation. In the end, JOY sounds like Phish are thrilled to have a second chance and feel no pressure to do anything but make music on their own terms. They sound more focused than on any of their ten previous studio offerings. So, as reunion sets go, this one is a winner.