Meaning: The quote by Mike Gordon, a renowned musician and bassist for the band Phish, reflects his thoughtful approach to his craft. In this statement, Gordon expresses his intention to acquire a collection of spare bass guitars for two primary reasons. Firstly, as a practical measure in case his primary instrument breaks, and secondly, as a means to explore and understand various aspects of bass guitars that he admires. By gaining insight into these aspects, he plans to collaborate with luthier Paul Languedoc to incorporate these elements into his custom-built instruments.

Gordon's desire to have spare bass guitars aligns with the practical considerations of a professional musician who relies on their instrument for performances and recordings. In the event of a technical issue or damage to his primary bass, having backup instruments ensures that Gordon can continue to deliver his musical performances without interruption. This proactive approach demonstrates his commitment to maintaining a consistent and high-quality sound, regardless of any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during live shows or recording sessions.

Furthermore, Gordon's intention to use the spare bass guitars as a learning tool highlights his dedication to understanding the intricacies of his instrument. As an experienced musician, he recognizes the value of hands-on exploration and experimentation in honing his craft. By actively engaging with different bass guitars, Gordon aims to identify specific qualities and features that resonate with him on a personal and artistic level. This process allows him to deepen his understanding of the instrument and gain insights that can inform the customization of his future bass guitars.

The collaboration between Mike Gordon and luthier Paul Languedoc reflects a symbiotic relationship between a musician and a skilled craftsman. Languedoc is renowned for his expertise in building custom guitars and has a longstanding partnership with Gordon, creating instruments tailored to the musician's preferences and playing style. Gordon's intention to study and discern specific features of bass guitars aligns with his collaborative approach with Languedoc, as it provides valuable input for the design and construction of instruments that truly resonate with his artistic vision.

In a broader context, Gordon's approach to acquiring spare bass guitars and leveraging them as a source of inspiration and education underscores the significance of continuous learning and refinement in the realm of musical craftsmanship. It emphasizes the notion that even established musicians continue to seek new perspectives and insights to inform their creative endeavors. Gordon's proactive and inquisitive stance serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey of exploration and discovery that underpins artistic growth and innovation.

In conclusion, Mike Gordon's quote encapsulates his proactive and thoughtful approach to his craft as a bassist and musician. His intention to acquire spare bass guitars for practical and creative purposes, coupled with his collaborative partnership with luthier Paul Languedoc, exemplifies a dedication to continuous learning, innovation, and the pursuit of sonic perfection. By embracing the process of exploration and customization, Gordon exemplifies the mindset of a musician who is committed to refining his artistry and pushing the boundaries of his musical expression.