SAILING THE SEAS OF CHEESE

My introduction to Primus, and it is my favorite album by them. I love this album, and the best thing about it: Les Claypool. Without doubt, he is one of the best bass players I have ever heard. Besides his stringy, psychadellic like bass playing, he throws out some unusual vocals, but they are entirely tolerable.

Another great aspect of this CD is every member is that each member is talented, and you they all contribute to the sound, yet you can distinctly hear each one. Larry LaLonde has some great guitar work, and puts some out almost thrash metal solos. However, the guitar is not the focal of this band. It is merely background to Claypool's bass, and of course puts out some nice solos. Tim Alexander does not do anything overally impressive, but he keeps everything smooth, and shows some serious talent.

Jerry the Race Car Driver is my favorite song from the album. It is funny, catchy song and, I think, displays each members skill the best. Also, it features my favorite guitar solo on the CD. Tommy the Cat is another great one. Very weird vocals, but amazing bass playing and there are some pretty good solos, (and Claypool puts a nice background to it). Is it Luck, Here Come the Bastards, American Life, and Sgt. Baker are other standouts. However, while none of the other songs dissapoint, they don't do much for me either.

Overall, a great album, and if you like music that'll give you a laugh sometimes this is it. I would recommend it for anyone who likes serious bass playing, weird music, and even some metal fans. If you can get past the odd vocals, I think this a CD you will love.

4 stars