Tetragrammaton with Rick Rubin Mike Gordon
96 snips
Nov 5, 2025 
Mike Gordon, bassist and co-founder of Phish, shares fascinating insights from his eclectic career. He recounts transformative onstage experiences, discusses the impact of rhythm on improvisation, and reveals how meditation enhances his musical flow. Gordon dives into his solo work and collaborations, reflecting on the creative tension that arises within Phish. He also highlights the festival culture and his first experience with the Grateful Dead, showcasing shared values yet distinct musical paths. A captivating exploration of music, creativity, and camaraderie!
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One Lick Sparked A 20‑Year Bond
- Mike connected with Leo Kottke after giving him a cassette and a zine; a tiny shared musical phrase unlocked a 20-year collaboration.
- A single two-bar lick became the key to their long-lasting musical partnership.
Why Phish Paused In 2004
- Phish broke up in 2004 after growing managerial complexity and drug problems, with members exhausted by the scale of operations.
- Their last planned festival in Coventry became a rain-soaked mudfest but fans still showed up, showing the depth of devotion.
Immersive Venues Change Perception
- Playing immersive venues like the Sphere transforms concerts into dreamlike experiences using massive visuals and directional audio.
- Spatialized sound and synchronized visuals can shape how musicians perceive and interact with their own performance.
