Mike Gordon

CRITIC'S PICK:
Sat., March 21
Mike Gordon, Variety Playhouse - Not content as bassist in one of the world's biggest jam bands (Phish, soon to play The Sphere for nine shows), Gordon uses time off to further his own distinctive, some may say eccentric, career. He returns for what seems to be a semi-annual appearance, with a new band that will likely feature music from Flying Games (2024), the bassist/multi-instrumentalist's most recent solo release. A little funk, some rhythmic rock, and odd if generally melodic pop dominate the sound which bounces around like a pinball in a machine that never pauses for "tilt. The approach has been described as Talking Heads meets Flaming Lips, which is close enough for anyone to realize how he separates himself from Phish-styled improvisation. The concert can splinter in many directions, but he's always worth a look. - Hal Horowitz