Photo Gallery: Phish @ nTelos, Portsmouth, VA 7/30/14

It was a bit of a disappointment to learn that one of the top live music photographers in Chicago would be heading back east this summer, but I wished Mr. Adam McCall the best of luck as he relocated back to Maryland.

Sure, we're a Chicago-based blog, but when somebody this talented offers stunning shots of some of our favorite musicians.... well, regardless, there's always a home for Adam at The Barn Presents.  He made the relatively short jaunt down to Virigina to grab these snaps of Phish on their second night at nTelos Pavilion.

And Adam soon realized that Phish out East was kind of a different animal than our Midwest flavor.  Even the mid-week show in Portsmouth gave him the taste of an energy and enthusiasm that skews a bit more frenzied and manic that the last few he's caught in Chicago.

Declaring himself a "born again Phish fan", Adam told me "it just seems like a different vibe on the east coast. I loved the energy of the crowd and the band seems invigorated this tour."

There's no doubt, and Portsmouth was no exception, as Phish ripped through a second set, in particular that offered a slew of seamless transitions and some meaty jams, even in "Meatstick"

Wednesday, 07/30/2014
nTelos Pavilion, Portsmouth, VA

Soundcheck: Jennifer Dances -> Foxy Lady

Set 1: Bathtub Gin, Devotion To a Dream, Yarmouth Road, Guelah Papyrus, Alaska, It's Ice > Poor Heart, Mountains in the Mist, Meat, Stealing Time From the Faulty Plan > David Bowie

Set 2: Fuego > Gotta Jibboo > Meatstick > Piper > Billy Breathes > Seven Below > Waste > Backwards Down the Number Line, First Tube

Encore: The Lizards

But the beauty in Adam's work is how well he captures everything about the event.  Sure, these are some fine captures of the four guys on stage, but it's little moments, unexpected angles, bold choices and interesting composition that distinguishes Adam's work.  Check out the full gallery below and you'll get a feel for what I'm talking about.  We'll definitely miss Adam in Chicago, but still look forward to following his career closely.

He brings the same passion and eye for the spectacle to all events that he covers.  If you're in the Mid-Atlantic region and looking for live music coverage, band promo shots, or special event photography, do give him a shout.