Written by: Geoff Tischman

With the release of their third album a day behind them, Vida Blue took the stage at the sold-out Capitol Theater the other night (9/20) to close out their recent reunion tour.

Comprised of Page McConnell of Phish, bassist Oteil Burbridge of Dead & Company and the Allman Brothers Band, Russell Batiste of the funky METERS and guitarist Adam Zimmon, the supergroup’s new album Crossing Lines is not only one of the year’s best, the new songs sounded like instant funky classics.

Every number on Crossing Lines was played and amidst the smoke and lasers, the band also threw in John Lennon’s “Jealous Guy” as well as Pink Floyd’s “Sheep.”

When news came that Vida Blue were breaking a 15-year touring absence, I was immediately excited and what made the night even more exciting was when McConnell indicated with promise of seeing everyone “next time” that Vida Blue would be back sooner than later.

“Analog Delay” was pure electro bliss; “Real Underground Soul Sound” was textured and tight and “Checking Out” was a groovy winner.

Set List: Analog Delay, Real Underground Soul Sound, Where Did It Go, CJ3, Jealous Guy, Phaidon, Dry Spell, Checking Out, Where’s Popeye’s?, Weepa, Maybe, Who’s Laughing Now, If I Told You, Final Flight, Sheep, Most Events Aren’t Planned