Discover the Shocking Journey of Primus in 2000: From Creative Turmoil to Epic Comeback!
Cali-prog funknuts Primus always embraced the challenges that came with their unique sound. Due to this uniqueness, the band faced difficulties, leading them to take a hiatus in the late 90s, which creatively lasted a decade. Fast forward to 2011, a reinvigorated Les Claypool revealed to Prog how the band made their triumphant return.
After a 14-year absence from playing in London, Primus returns to the stage for a sold-out show at Brixton Academy. The trio has also completed their eighth studio album, Green Naugahyde, slated for release that autumn. With new music and a renewed sense of creativity, the band’s decade-long hiatus has come to a natural end.
Recounting the time before the hiatus, Claypool shares, “We weren’t even really talking for a while. We were in different spaces personally and creatively it was just a mess. I really didn’t like the scene that Primus had become a part of, and I just wanted away from it all.”
During the hiatus, Claypool ventured into new projects, distancing himself from playing Primus songs. However, when the band reunited, a shift in energy was palpable. Claypool recollects, “Talking to Ler [Larry LaLonde, guitar], he was very excited and wanted to do a new album. We came to the agreement that it just wasn’t working.”
The return of Jay Lane, who played an essential role in the band’s early days, was crucial to Claypool’s recommitment to Primus. Lane’s drumming style influenced the band’s sound significantly and brought back a sense of cohesion to the group.
Claypool describes their latest album as more groove-oriented, reminiscent of their earlier work like ‘Frizzle Fry.’ He notes a shift in lyrical content and musical direction, reflecting the band’s growth and evolution over the years.
Reflecting on their previous album ‘Antipop,’ Claypool admits, “Antipop was just a mess. We were a mess.” Despite the challenges faced during that period, the album led to fruitful collaborations with artists like Stewart Copeland, spawning projects like Oysterhead.
Primus, with their unconventional, progressive sound, has always defied categorization in the music industry. Despite the difficulties in marketing their music, the band remained true to their unique style and vision.
As Primus gears up for a resurgence, Claypool expresses confidence and liberation in their music. With a renewed focus on creativity and a disregard for mainstream success, the band finds themselves in a space of artistic freedom and exploration.
Primus continues to push boundaries and challenge norms, embodying the essence of progressive music. With a rich history of experimentation and innovation, the band stands as a testament to the power of artistic authenticity and creative integrity.
