Antipop

Primus is sometimes considered a square peg in a round hole amongst the band's musical peers. Yet somehow, Les Claypool and company have always managed a perfect fit. On ANTIPOP, the band continues on its fearless musical journey. The impressive roster of guest artists is only part of the reason why this album is a must for music fans who walk their own paths. more...

Rage Against The Machine's Tom Morello brings his percussive and unnerving guitar sound to "Electric Uncle Sam" and "Mama Didn't Raise No Fool". On the tongue-in-cheek "Sacred Cow", Les Claypool's distinctive slap-bass style shines. Guitarist Larry LaLonde is conservative yet brilliant in his moody, textural playing that is fitting without ever being flashy. "Eclectic Electric" brings together an unlikely pair of guests: Jim Martin and Metallica's James Hetfield, both of whom were in bands with the late Cliff Burton. Drummer Brian "Brain" Mantia, who returned to Primus for THE BROWN ALBUM, neatly fills the vacancy left by Tim Alexander, offering complex rhythms and jazz-influenced dynamics. ANTIPOP expresses the essence of a unique band embraced by people who don't mind a little pork in their soda.

Spin (11/99, p.188)
- 6 out of 10 - "...[offers] Les Claypool's usual mix of surrealism, punditry, and inhalants....Bottom-heavy grooves, detuned guitars, and avant-metal riffs? Lose Claypool's yelp and this stuff is pop..."

Alternative Press (12/99, pp.110-1)
- 4 out of 5 - "...This is the rockin'est Primus record in quite awhile....clearly Primus' catchall attempt to get back to being a rock band....If this is Primus getting back on track, good for them. It's about time."