Primus et Les Claypool

Every now and then, you come across a band that genuinely stand alone as a real musical one-off; as a genre, though, metal seems to have more than its fair share. Primus fit pretty neatly into that particular category; their weird blend of heavy instrumentation, funk-driven song structures and progressive, expansive leanings makes them a genuinely intriguing proposition. Not to mention, too, that they do it all with their own quirky sense of humour running through proceedings; classic records by the band bear titles including Sailing the Seas of Cheese and Pork Soda. After an initial split back in 2000 - because “it just wasn’t fun anymore”, according to singer Les Claypool - they reconvened in 2003 and continue to tour to this day, playing shows that are equal parts eccentric silliness and technical proficiency. Their most recent tour of the UK, saw career-spanning sets that included classics like ‘Jerry Was a Race Car Driver’ and ‘Frizzle Fry’ and typically ended with a bombastic, extended rendition of ‘John the Fisherman’. With drummer Tim Alexander returning to the fold late last year after a seventeen-year absence, there’s rumours that Primus may head to the studio later this year, meaning further touring plans shouldn’t be too far around the corner.

Les Claypool is either an artist you love or hate, but if you're anything like me then you will absolutely love his live shows. From Primus to Oysterhead to his solo work, he is always an entertaining performer and has his own unique twisted brand of humor that always shines better when you see him live. Most people don't know it but he made the theme song for the tv show "South Park", but he has a ton of more songs worth checking out such as "Boonville Stomp" and "Long in the Tooth". He always loves to try new experimental songs on tour, and he is always worth seeing live as he puts his twangy and bassy twist on old favorites and plenty of covers like Alice in Chains' "Man in the Box." His distinct voice, style, and skill on the bass guitar make him stand out and his extended bass guitar solos are always a sight to see live. He doesn't garner a huge following, making his shows a good fit for festivals or smaller shows, which is better because he doesn't put on extravagant shows. It's mostly a few guys on stage with him helping out with guitars and drums, but they mostly fall in the background as Les shines in front of them. You haven't seen a performance like this before until you've seen Les perform a 15 minute bass solo.

Outstanding concert! Les was his usual supreme being, the best bassist in the land. Sean killed on the guitar with a voice highly reminiscent of his father.

Chicano Batman was entertaining as well.

All in all a wonderful night!