The newest release from Primus has certainly been a long time coming, and with their most revered lineup back in effect, their uncompromising style is full blown yet again. Right from the get-go, you can do nothing but be sucked in.
Before you even put the DVD or accompanying CD in the player, the cover art instantly demands your attention with it’s, nothing short of phenomenal, classic Primus. And since the package is so stocked, it’s a difficult decision as to where to start with this beast. The DVD? Packed full of original music videos and tons of extras spanning the band’s career. The CD? There are five
new songs from Claypool, LaLonde, and, that’s right, Tim Alexander, formally known as "Herb."
Despite the choice, I opted to begin with the DVD. The 3+ hour film includes 12 music videos and a short stop-motion animated film featuring a cover of Charlie Daniel’s "The Devil Went Down to Georgia." Also included are Primus classics "Too Many Puppies," "Jerry Was a Race Car Driver," "Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver" and many other solid songs form the diverse catalog. Perfectly illustrating the growth of the band throughout their career, it begins with home-style videos of early club footage and crude cartoons, including the timeless "John the Fisherman." Showcasing a developing growth in creativity and a very unique maturity, "Tommy the Cat" is a polished black and white piece, only strengthened by further feature animation, reminiscent of "Ren &Stimpy." "Mr. Krinkle" exemplifies Primus’ distinct presence and the full-on experience they deliver. The fitting circus theme and camera angle accurately depict the band’s certain off-centeredness. "Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver" is the one video every fan should recognize from MTV, though "Southbound Pachyderm" is the highlight inclusion, with extraordinary stop-motion animation and well developed storyline.
The videos deliver an amazing range of visual oddity, and a vast array of styles, from home video to visions of David Lynch and Jonathon Waters, though they are just the tip of the iceberg. The various selections include many rarities, such as bootleg quality performances from over the years, inclusive of the different band lineups. And the selection "Horrible Men" gives a rare glimpse of the band backstage. Added bonuses rounding out the film are a complete discography, including compilations and soundtracks, and a small photography gallery. If that wasn’t enough, the making of "Mr. Krinkle," and "The Making of the Brown Album," are fan essentials, not to mention the out of print 1992 home video release "Cheesy Home Video".
As for the CD, Claypool’s hypnotic and rhythmic bass guides you through the band’s reunion. Bizarre lyrics, amazing tones, screeching guitars, booming bass, and rumbling percussion dismiss any doubt of the charisma of this power trio. The opener " The Carpenter and the Dainty Bride," mixes a little of Claypool’s new jam tendencies with a kicking instrumental intro before fusing into patented Primus madness, right where this trio left off on Tales From the Punchbowl. Lalonde's guitar screaches bring some fresh charisma to Claypool's patented comical lyrics that never fail to leave a hidden message. From the uninitiated to the die-hard, you will not be disappointed with the collection. Primus is back, and do they ever suck!
Primus embarks on a cross county tour beginning October 13 in Petamula, CA and coming to a close on November 25 at NYC’s Roseland Ballroom. The tour will include two full sets by the band. The second set will be a one time only start to finish performance of the Primus album Sailing the Seas of Cheese."
