In this episode of ‘We Read Icculus,’ hosts Andrea and Brian (broadcasting from Boulder and Tokyo, respectively) take viewers through an in-depth literary and musical exploration of Phish’s storied 2000 tour across Japan. With Brian based in Tokyo, the episode skillfully blends live reading, discussion, and cultural context, offering a unique perspective on how the iconic American jam band engaged with Japanese audiences and venues. Rob Mitchum’s essays serve as a narrative guide, highlighting each of the seven stops on the tour, from major cities to historic music venues, giving fans insight into Phish’s musical evolution abroad.

The tour began in Tokyo at On Air East and Zepp, two venues known for their vibrant live music scenes. The journey continued at the Hibiya Outdoor Theatre, a renowned open-air stage in central Tokyo, providing a visually and acoustically distinct setting for Phish’s improvisational performances. The tour didn’t just stop in the capital; the band moved on to Nagoya’s Club Quattro, a staple for rock and alternative acts, before heading to southern Japan for a show at Fukuoka’s Drum Logos. The final performances unfolded in Osaka, first at Big Cat and then at Zepp Osaka, highlighting the band’s adaptability and the diverse Japanese live music landscape.

Throughout the livestream, Andrea and Brian not only recount the essays but also reflect on personal memories, audience reactions, and Japanese culture as experienced by Phish and their fans. Their discussion expands beyond the music itself, touching on travel anecdotes, the nuances of Japanese concert-going, and the cross-cultural exchange that Phish’s Japan tour fostered. By blending Rob Mitchum’s vivid storytelling with their own reactions and laughter, the hosts provide a compelling resource for both seasoned fans and newcomers intrigued by the intersection of American music and Japanese culture.

The featured venues like Hibiya Outdoor Theatre (35.6874, 139.7547), Zepp Tokyo (35.6292, 139.7729), Club Quattro Nagoya, Drum Logos Fukuoka, and Big Cat/Zepp Osaka are pillars of Japan’s live music scene, making this episode a must-watch for those interested in music tourism or exploring Japan’s urban nightlife through the lens of legendary international acts.