I think that whatever post Trio plans that involved John ALL backfired.

Even though John had songwriting success in the 60s, "Daydream Believer" was the Monkees "farewell" hit, and "Never Goin' Back" was the same with the Lovin' Spoonful (minus Sebastian).

I think that Denver was probably working on his own deal off to the side. He didn't leave any mark on the Mitchell Trio (without Chad), BUT he came across as something a tad bit NEW, and perhaps he was winning enough interest as a singer on his own. Even though it took a few years.