re: Best Phish concert to listen to for a beginner?

A Live One is probably the consensus. Not a live show per se, but a great representation of their sound and style.

5/7/94 - Tweezerfest - great example of the band throwing away the setlist and just winging it. Tons of improv and the band weaving their way through snippets of cover songs over a full 2nd set. Closing it down with a great Purple Rain into a Hold your Head Up jam into Tweezer Reprise that is one their best segues ever.

12/31/95 - considered by many as their best show. It’s three sets so maybe a little overwhelming for a beginner.

11/17/97 - Band was at the very top of their game. Energy in the arena was nothing like I’ve felt before or after. Unfortunately I went to jail that night after the show.

Also a big fan of the Island Tour in early April 98.

I believe these are all available as official releases so should be easily accessible.

I’m not as well versed in shows post 2000. Although there have some great ones others can recommend.