Album of the Day

One of the greatest jam bands of all time, Phish cut their musical teeth during mid-1980s live engagements at Nectar's in Burlington Vermont, so it was only fitting that the quartet's major label debut pay tribute to the venue and its owner, Nector Rorris. The 1992 Elektra album A PICTURE OF NECTAR reflects both the eclecticism and instrumental interplay that have made the band's concerts legendary – the 14 tracks here touch on a dizzying variety of styles, including jazz, bluegrass, Latin, rock and funk, all fused into an organic whole (with off-the-wall lyrics guaranteed to put a smile on your face). The collection features some of the extended improvisation for which the group is famous, but it's also focused and accessible, making A PICTURE OF NECTAR a good one for Phish newbies to catch ... and an ideal way to celebrate singer-guitarist Trey Anastasio's birthday today.