Primus: Les Claypool (vocals, mandolin, bass); Larry Lalonde (guitar, six-string banjo); Tim "Herb" Alexander (drums).
While some longtime Primus fans feel that 1993's PORK SODA was the beginning of the end of the group, it was Primus' biggest commercial success to date, making them part of the 90's alternative rock royalty. Claypool's usually lighthearted lyrics take a turn to the dark side on the murder tale "My Name Is Mud" and the suicidal "Bob," but his biting sense of humor resurfaces on such tracks as "Welcome to this World," "DMV," "Nature Boy," and "Mr. Krinkle." PORK SODA was Primus first album to be recorded in the cushy confines of Les Claypool's house, giving the album a more "made at home" feel and sound than previous releases.
What the critics say…
Rolling Stone (6/10/93, p.71) - 3 Stars - Good - "…an amalgam of elements that have no reason to be joined together in a sane universe…if you think it's high time surrealism entered the mosh pits of America, PORK SODA just may be your cup of meat…"
Entertainment Weekly (4/23/93, p.58) - "…PORK SODA's alternative-metal- fusion will appeal mostly to folks who like a little fizz with their lard…" - Rating: B
Q (8/93, p.98) - 3 Stars - Good - "…bumptious and highly enjoyable nonsense….Primus' appeal remains rooted in their astounding, renegade technique…"
Melody Maker (5/29/93, p.34) - "…It takes a special kind of insanity to be this good….Primus are purveyors of acrid and idiosyncratic folk tales that are closer to the spirit of Tom Waits than anyone else…."
Musician (6/93, p.90) - "…So the songwriting sucks. So what? Primus' strength is playing…"
