Mike Gordon -- Uncharted Waters August 1, 2004 - Bass Player Jonathan Herrera After almost 21 years together, iconic jam band Phish announced it was calling it quits in late May. In the online statement, guitarist Trey Anastasio summed it up: "We're done. It's been a long and amazing and incredible journey. We thank you for the love and support you've shown." Anchored by Mike Gordon, the Vermont quartet garnered an exceedingly loyal fanbase and mainstream success with its adventurous compositions, cohesive improvisation, and relentless touring. The band will conclude its final summer tour with Coventry, a self-produced festival in Vermont. Mike checked in to let us know his thoughts on the split. "My favorite thing about music is the potential for magic. I don't mean extraterrestrial or supernatural magic, but rather the magic that allows you to feel more yourself than ever, and for this feeling to develop in the context of group interaction. Phish has been an ideal outlet for this kind of mischief. Twenty-one years of commitment and chemistry adds up big time. Even in the barn where we practice, a few minutes of jamming with those guys can make me feel like I'm floating out over the valley, between mountains. By playing with Phish, I've been able to visit exotic places from my dreams. To be able to share that adventure with Trey, Page, and Fish in the context of Trey's incredible compositions, and with great fans and friends along for the ride-and to be paid for it-has been beyond lucky. I'm saddened that we are leaving it behind, despite the potential to stretch more limits. I think the attempt to leave on a high note, when the music is still good and the vibe is intact, is a noble gesture, almost unheard of in rock music. Though I would have voted for even more longevity, I respect that the intent is to preserve our legacy. In the future, I intend to do more of what I've done in the past: record with Leo Kottke, tour more with the band I put together to support my album Inside In [Ropeadope], and make more music-related films. And I'll look for new opportunities and ways of developing as an artist-anyone need a bass player? One thing that's coming out this summer is Bane, Joey Arkenstat's album on Ropeadope Records, which I produced. It's the wildest bass-oriented album I've ever heard. Thanks, BP, for your friendliness and coverage over the years." Article Copyright © 2004 Bass Player