The Dead of Summer Music Festival in Vermont recently witnessed a unique musical moment as God Street Wine, the jam veterans, unveiled their interpretation of Phish's iconic song, 'The Wedge.' This debut performance, a first-ever Phish cover for GSW, adds a new layer to the rich history of these two bands that emerged from the 1980s and rose to prominence in the 90s jam scene.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the shared roots of these bands. GSW's guitarist Lo Faber and drummer Tom 'Tomo' Osander grew up in Princeton, New Jersey, the same hometown as Phish's guitarist Trey Anastasio. This connection adds a personal touch to the cover, almost like a musical homage between friends.
The Significance of 'The Wedge'
'The Wedge' holds a special place in Phish's repertoire, having been debuted live in 1992 and released on 'Rift' a year later. Its debut in Vermont, Phish's home state, further emphasizes its importance. For God Street Wine to choose this song for their Phish cover debut is a bold move, indicating a deep respect for Phish's legacy.
God Street Wine's Performance
GSW's set at Dead of Summer was an energetic 16-song journey. They opened with 'Epilog' and seamlessly transitioned into 'The Wedge,' following it up with a series of their own fan-favorites like 'Chop,' 'Princess Henrietta,' and 'Hellfire.' The highlight of their performance was undoubtedly the cover of 'The Wedge.' Aaron Maxwell and Lo Faber's joint lead vocals were a perfect blend, and Maxwell's fiery guitar solo set the stage for an expansive jam that took the song to new heights.
A Tribute to Musical Influences
After 'The Wedge,' GSW continued to showcase their love for fan-favorites with songs like 'Hammer and a Spike' and 'Mile by Mile.' They also paid tribute to Bob Weir with a cover of the Grateful Dead's 'Cassidy' and added a unique twist with their take on Pink Floyd's 'Wot's... Uh the Deal.' The versatility of their set list is a testament to their musical prowess and their ability to keep their fans engaged.
The Future of 'The Wedge' in GSW's Setlist
GSW's performance of 'The Wedge' at their final show of the 2026 run in Asbury Park, New Jersey, suggests that this Phish cover might become a permanent fixture in their setlist rotation. This move could be a strategic one, appealing to both Phish and GSW fans, and a testament to the enduring popularity of 'The Wedge.'
In my opinion, God Street Wine's decision to cover 'The Wedge' is a brilliant strategic move that showcases their respect for Phish's legacy while also appealing to a wider audience. It's a bold choice that adds a new dimension to their live performances and keeps their fans engaged and excited.
Conclusion
The Dead of Summer Music Festival provided the perfect platform for God Street Wine to showcase their musical prowess and pay tribute to their influences. Their performance of 'The Wedge' was a highlight, and its potential inclusion in their future setlists is an exciting prospect for fans of both bands. This cover not only solidifies GSW's place in the jam scene but also highlights the enduring appeal of Phish's music.
