Wong Notes The Trey Anastasio Takeover Continues!
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Nov 12, 2025 
Trey Anastasio, the founder and frontman of Phish, discusses his recent creative journey, including a meaningful piano purchase for his 60th birthday. He dives into the challenges of translating piano compositions to guitar and reflects on the evolution of his songwriting. Trey shares his thoughts on how streaming affects music engagement and the excitement he feels about emerging young bands. Additionally, he plays unreleased demos, revealing his unique approach to music-making and the importance of authenticity in his sound.
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Birthday Return To Composed Writing
- Trey bought a piano, pencils and manuscript paper for his 60th birthday and returned to writing composed music like when he was young.
- He learned piano-written pieces on guitar and recorded melodic, unusually voiced guitar music that felt unique to him.
Demo Drumbeats Become Band DNA
- Trey sends demos with explicit drum-machine grooves to Fishman, who learns them exactly and expands them in performance.
- He recounts demos like 'Wedge' and how Fishman replicates drum-machine phrases then improvises beyond them.
Make Demos Without A Computer
- Use simple, physical methods to make demos: play instruments, record live drums, and avoid relying on computer software.
- Trey emphasizes hands-on demo-making and even records drums, bass, piano and vocals without owning a computer.