PRANZO OLTRANZISTA

Much better than his first solo outing, Pranzo showcases Patton in his avant-garde genius. If ever a man could replace Frank Zappa, it would be Mike Patton. This time around, we get actual songs as opposed to vocal experimentation. The collaboration with John Zorn gives Patton focus, which he often lacks. It's semi-conceptual and revolves around the "Futurist Cookbook." Don't ask. Patton excels at creating discordant tracks, and he combines dissimialr sounds to challenge listener. "Aerovivanda" has horns that mix with the sound of glass shattering, while the opener "Elettricita Atmospheriche Candite" has unsettling violin that is joined by psychedelic guitar.

Fans of FNM, Mr. Bungle, and Fantomas should be able to digest this. Newcomers to Patton should get Faith No More's The Real Thing and Angel Dust as well as Mr. Bungle's California, as these are the easiest to get into (that's not saying much). However, established fans should pick up this album if you can find it.

Grade: C