“Blue Bossa” was written by ‘50s trumpeter Kenny Dorham, but is primarily known from the many versions by ‘60s saxophonist Joe Henderson. Aptly named, it blends melancholy with Latin rhythms. (Bossa nova is Latin-influenced jazz, developed in the 1960s by Stan Getz, Astrud Gilberto, and Herbie Mann. Think “Girl from Ipanema”). This danceably rhythmic tune is known to have appeared in only three Phish shows. The debut on 6/24/88 settled in between “Possum” and “Alumni.” On 7/12/88 the song provided a surprise opener to a second set just before “A Train.” The final known appearance on 7/23/88 followed “Satin Doll,” both songs featuring Peter Danforth and Dave Grippo on horns.

– Ellis Godard, The Mockingbird Foundation, Inc.