Hi, I asked the long question about where the vibe comes from. Thanks for your response!

To address your questions for the readers:
(1) I would define the vibe as "simply" the sum total of everything happening around you that affects your state of mind. This would include -- but not be limited to -- interpersonal actions; sounds; sights; smells; weather; anything external that affects your sense of safety, freedom, belonging, etc.

Importantly, by "sum total" I'm saying that all these constituent parts together constitute the vibe. That is where the vibe comes from, and what it is. I don't think of the vibe as something extra that exists as a distinct entity unto itself. I disagree with the idea that the vibe is "an actual phenomenon distinct from other forms of experience". I would say it's the sum of various experiences, nothing more. That seems the most parsimonious explanation. Why do you think we need to posit something extra?

(2) I'm interpreting "vibed with" as meaning "(a) were affected by the vibe, and (b) resonated harmoniously with the vibe, such that one's own actions contributed to that same vibe". This is perhaps an unsatisfying answer, but I feel like most shows rank about equally on this regard. I try to approach shows with an open mind, rolling with whatever Phish serves up. So I rarely have the experience of NOT vibing with a show. That said, it has happened. Generally those times are when I've got too much distracting me inside my mind. So I'd say the biggest factor for me in terms of vibing with a show is my mental state heading into the show, personally.

(3) In terms of the quality of the vibe, we can separate two main factors: Phish's performance, and everything else. We all have our opinions about what makes for a better Phish performance. No need to rehash those here. In terms of the other factors, what makes for a better vibe: happy people, safety, freedom, a feeling of unity (e.g. we all got rained on), a special setting (e.g. the Gorge), people helping each other out / being generous, a fun lot scene, serendipity (e.g. running into an old friend), etc. etc.