The music festival scene never fails to deliver unique and memorable moments, and the recent Dead Of Summer Music Festival in Vermont was no exception. This time, it was God Street Wine's turn to captivate the audience with their rendition of Phish's iconic song, "The Wedge."
A Jam Band's Tribute
God Street Wine, the jam veterans, took the stage at Hunter Park, Manchester, and treated the crowd to a stretched-out, jammed-out version of "The Wedge." This marked their first-ever Phish cover, and what a debut it was! The song, originally released on Phish's album "Rift," has become a fan favorite over the years, and God Street Wine's interpretation did not disappoint.
A Shared History
What makes this collaboration particularly fascinating is the shared history between the two bands. Both God Street Wine and Phish emerged in the 1980s and rose to prominence in the 1990s jam scene. The connection runs even deeper, as GSW's guitarist Lo Faber and drummer Tom "Tomo" Osander grew up in the same hometown as Phish's guitarist Trey Anastasio. It's almost as if the stars aligned for this musical reunion.
The Significance of the Debut
Phish debuted "The Wedge" live in 1992, and its release on "Rift" coincided with the rapid growth of both bands' fanbases. The fact that God Street Wine chose to perform this song in Vermont, Phish's home state, adds an extra layer of meaning. It's almost like a musical tribute to their shared roots and a celebration of the jam scene's legacy.
A Setlist to Remember
God Street Wine's set at Dead Of Summer was an impressive 16-song performance, with "The Wedge" taking center stage. The band opened with "Epilog" and seamlessly transitioned into their Phish cover. The energy was electric as Aaron Maxwell and Lo Faber shared lead vocals, and the guitarists' fiery solos took the jam to new heights. The anthemic riff that followed was a testament to their musical prowess.
A Diverse Setlist
But "The Wedge" wasn't the only highlight of the night. God Street Wine continued to delight the audience with a mix of fan favorites and unexpected covers. From "Hammer And A Spike" to "Mile By Mile" and a Grateful Dead cover of "Cassidy," the band showcased their versatility and respect for musical icons. The set also featured Tomo on guitar and vocals for Pink Floyd's "Wot's... Uh The Deal," with Lo Faber taking on drum duties. It was a true musical journey.
A Possible New Tradition?
With God Street Wine performing "The Wedge" twice during their 2026 run, it raises the question: Could this Phish cover become a permanent fixture in their setlist? Only time will tell, but it's an exciting prospect for fans. This debut performance at Dead Of Summer hints at a potential new tradition, and I, for one, am eager to see where this musical exploration takes them next.
A Deeper Connection
What many people don't realize is that these musical collaborations and covers go beyond just paying tribute. They represent a deeper connection between artists and a shared appreciation for the craft. It's a reminder that music is a universal language, and when artists come together, magic happens. So, when you hear God Street Wine's version of "The Wedge," remember the story behind it and the rich history of the jam scene.
Conclusion
In a world where music festivals offer a plethora of choices, moments like these remind us of the power of live music and the unique experiences they create. God Street Wine's performance of "The Wedge" is a testament to the enduring spirit of the jam scene and the endless possibilities of musical exploration. It's a story worth celebrating and sharing, and I, for one, am grateful to have been a part of it, even if only through this article.
