Trey Anastasio Brings It Home to New Jersey
Trey Anastasio’s two-night acoustic run at the Count Basie Theater in Red Bank, NJ, was more than a concert—it was a heartfelt homecoming. With the stage set with just a chair, a few guitars, and a spotlight, Trey delivered intimate, deeply personal performances that celebrated his New Jersey roots. A simple light show and subtle rear projections added just enough atmosphere without pulling focus from the music.
Having grown up in Princeton, Trey’s connection to the Garden State runs deep. On Saturday, he shared a story about seeing Bruce Springsteen as a kid—a moment that sparked his musical path—and how Bruce just last year joined him onstage at Sea.Hear.Now in Asbury Park for an unforgettable version of Trey’s favorite Springsteen song, “Kitty’s Back.” I’d be lying if I said there wasn’t some hope for another surprise reunion that night. (Alas.)
With both shows selling out in minutes, it was easy to see the room was packed with devoted fans who instinctively joined Trey in call-and-response moments—singing every line, echoing lyrics without a cue, and nailing the timing so perfectly it had Trey smiling, laughing, and shaking his head in appreciation.
Many attended both nights and were rewarded with completely different setlists: 25 songs with no break on night one, and 27 songs plus a three-song encore on night two.
On Sunday night, the music spanned Phish classics like “Bouncing Around the Room,” “You Enjoy Myself,” and “Harry Hood,” along with selections from Trey Anastasio Band and Ghosts of the Forest. Jeff Tanski joined on piano at the end of each night, adding depth to the stripped-down sound. Sunday’s encore—“Brief Time,” “Fluffhead,” and a raucous “Tweezer Reprise”—was the perfect send-off.
It wasn’t just a show. It was a celebration of connection, memory, and the music that binds us.
