Up until 1997, I (being 23 years old) thought that I had crossed the musical universe. From Bach to Led Zepplin and everything in between, I figured there wasn't much left out there that I hadn't heard or experienced. And then one fateful day, my "musical universe" jumped to a new level.

I sent in one of those Columbia House "12 CD's for a penny" deal and chose a random collection of classical, jazz, and a bunch of Bob Marley. I am forever indebted to Columbia House, for they switched one of the Marley albums I had ordered for Phish's Billy Breathes. I stared at the funny looking guy on the front of the CD, his enormous nose making me wonder, "what the hell are these guys all about?" There are not too many moments you can look back upon and say "at that point, my life changed." Looking back, I can say the day I listened to that CD was one of those moments.

After Billy Breathes wore out my CD player, I bought anything that was Phish and began my new musical journey. They were brilliant and terrible at the same time! They would play the most beautiful melody and follow it up with frightening noise. They were geniuses who made fun of themselves. They made me laugh hysterically, gave me the chills, caused me to weep, and inspired me to dance (which I've never done before Phish). Going to my first Phish show brought everything full circle. The people at the show were so friendly and care free!

I knew I had found my musical home, and then it hit me like a ton of bricks during a mind blowing Antelope. I was feeling love through the music! I expressed my love through frenetic dancing and wild shouts, while the love from those four incredible guys on stage and from the crowd came back to me tenfold. This moment of reciprocal love changed my life (for the second time), and now I see every jam band I possibly can; seeking, and finding the love I first experienced with Phish. I'd like to thank Fishman, Mike, Page, and Trey for allowing me, for the first time, to truly experience music the way it ought to.

- Chad