In a new interview with the Minneapolis Star Tribune (first reported by Jambase) ahead of Phish’s summer tour kickoff later this week, Mike Gordon dished on a variety of topics including his decision to pass on the offer to be the bassist for Dead & Company.

“It’s such a dream gig,” the bassist said. “I went for a week of rehearsals. I was flattered they wanted me as the first choice for bass. The prospect of doing it was exciting. I love the Grateful Dead.”

Gordon added that his decision to decline came with the fact that Phish was in the process of making a new album and he was also working on his solo effort, meaning that accepting the gig would’ve put those recording plans off for the time being. “It was the biggest dream going that I’ve ever had to say no to,” he added.

Gordon also spoke on Phish’s new album, saying that producer Bob Ezrin challenged the group to “check out inspirational music to get a more raw emotion.” Gordon adds, “He wanted us to carve away the fluff and wordplay.” The bassist admits the method “indirectly” had a big effect, saying that the new Phish album “is particularly heartfelt. Not ballads or sappy. It’s meaty.”

Phish’s summer tour kicks off June 22 in St. Paul, MN.