By Jon Fairbourne
Phish is not a fish with gills, it is a band that started from the Burlington area in Vermont. The group Phish was formed in 1983 and modified around 1986 when second guitarist Jeff Holdsworth left and pianist Page McConnell joined, Phish is: Trey Anastasio, Mike Gordon, Jon Fishman, and Page McConnell. Trey and Mike play guitar and bass guitar respectively. Jon plays the drums and Page plays the keyboards.
What does Phish sound like? According to bassist Mike Gordon, Phish plays “bluegrass, Latin, rock, funk, classical, jazz, calypso, hard-core, and broadway.” Sometimes these styles are employed individually, other times they are fused together. Phish’s music is characterized by simple lyrics, sophisticated instrumentals, extensive musical communication, and extended improvisation. Some of Phish’s songs conform to conventional concepts of popular music, other songs serve as frameworks for improvisation.
What is the feeling Phish portrays? Phish is a lifestyle, a way of thinking. It is a way of allowing your mind to roam freely to the sound of music. It is a way of exploring yourself, your surroundings, and those around you. That which is logical is insignificant, yet at the same time, important. It is the unexpected, yet better than your wildest expectations. It is serious, while at the same time resounding with childish freedom. Most of all, it exists for you and because of you.