Wading in the Velvet Sea is a song by the jamband Phish. It was debuted on 06/13/1997 in Dublin, Ireland, & made appearances throughout the summer, only to disappear from performances from 08/02/1997 until 08/07/1998 at Walnut Creek Amphitheatre. Featured on the album The Story of the Ghost, Wading in the Velvet Sea is often played as a "breather" or slow down song amidst intense jamming, occasionally being employed as an encore. Contrary to most Phish lyrics, which range from whimsical, random thoughts to more serious lyrics, it is known for its poignant, emotional lyrics. It is subsequently a very somber, sad sounding song, especially juxtaposed with Phish's commonly lighthearted, joyful songs. At Phish's final show, Coventry, piano player Page McConnell started crying while trying to sing the lyrics, and was helped along by the crowd.