THE BROWN ALBUM

In contrast to the previous reviewer, this was the 6th Primus album I came too. And I had heard fans and critics running this down previously, as the worst. But as a fan of Claypool's bass and his ability to write anything from hard rock to vaudeville/musicalhall story songs, and that unusally CD cover, I bought the album when I saw it secondhand, (odd how many Primus albums can be picked up 2nd hand!). Immediately it became my favourite. It has a numbe rof distinguihsing studio tricks to offer. For instance this first thing your hear is the bass end of the recording kranked to almost to the point of distortion, giving an inyerface effect. The songs are typical of Primus's spread of rock, post rock, the vaudeville song stories, even sneaking in the jazz and folk. Les Claypool's ability to pick an unusual bass riff which stands repetition and minor change inarrnagement, and holds you through the tune. There are the typical Primus changes of tempo and musical type every tune - plus the occasional tease, e.g. 'Kalamazoo' suggesting it might become a cover of a 40's hit but doesn't go that way. True not a place to start with Primus but certain one of the better Primus albums for consistency, musical range and playing.

(Hey isn't this review so unlike the previous reviewer's but that's how Primus can affect folks).

3 going 4 stars.