Friday, August 13, 2010

Here Come the Bastards!

Thats right, Daves deconstruction of Soundwave continues today with a look at one of the less metal, more obscure acts on the bill. The original, the funky, the delicious, PRIMUS.


Primus have been around for a long time - maybe not as long as the likes of Iron Maiden but still, quite the while. And to have survived for so long despite strange production values, an obscure sound (both musically and lyrically), and at times scarcely even playing OR recording (they havent technically released a FULL LENGTH album since 1999) is a testament to how incredible a band they really are. The amazing basslines of Les Claypool - the man can do to a 4 string guitar what many other people had never tried - have paved the way, as the leader, for the new school of funk bassists. Whether you like it or not, its hard to find a man more original than Les. Larry LaLonde was plucked by Claypool from the company of Joe Satriani, and probably for the best. Unfortunately one of the things I was most excited about was finally getting the chance to see Tim 'Herb' Alexander behind the drums (he is AMAZING) but unfortunately he won't be attending. The new part of the ensemble is Jay Lane, one of the original members from '88 - which is something to look forward to in its own right.

Started in 1999 and with various lineup changes throughout, Primus are returning to Australia for the first time in over a decade. Theres not much I can do in writing to convey the unique ensemble that these guys are, so watch a video instead.



They've just begun their first full tour in 4 years (apart from occasional US festival appearances) and have also been kind enough to share some material recorded at rehearsals for the upcoming tour. Im listening to them right now and they're fantastic. To get your filthy hands on them head on over to Primusville and sign up for the free download.

Primus are easily one of the acts I'm most excited about the impending arrival of. Hopefully sideshows will be announced soon - you'll hear from me as soon as they do.

Stay tuned over the next few weeks as I continue to disassemble Soundwave and fill you with facts/my opinion. I know you look forward to it.

3 comments:

Leonard said...

it still angers me that i have to describe les claypool as the guy who does the robot chicken and south park intros to people!!!

Nancy Magoo said...

Tony Hawk's Pro Skater! Ah memories.

Javid van der Piepers said...

leonard my friend - i feel your pain so very very much. considering what primus and les are, its a shame that thats the only way some people know about them. though claypool still continues with music for cartoons/games too. and writing a book. and many other endeavours. talented man.

and lol @ nancy, damn right!