Primus - Pork Soda (1993), 8/10

Pork Soda is a bit darker and has a matured sound beyond their earlier work, both in vision and execution. It's still weird as hell, but the blend of oddball proclivity, dark narration, and gravel-like texture creates an album like bitter coffee and sweet cake: utterly delicious. The band's sound on Pork Soda has clearly benefited from depth, a wider soundscape, and a masterful mix that lifts the already sinister tone to new heights. The murky rhythm section mixed with the clever and silly, yet anxious and surreal wordplay combine to create a one-of-a-kind experience that only this particular group of musicians could produce. Les plays the mandolin and Larry plays banjo on two tracks, exhibiting the creative generosity behind the project. It is worth stating there is a very specific, eccentric attitude and complexion to Pork Soda - you either buy into the experience and its whimsicality or you don’t. The more popular singles like “My Name Is Mud”, “Welcome to This World” and “DMV” may have mass appeal, but the bulk of the record, in particular tracks such as “Pork Soda”, “Mr. Krinkle”, “The Air Is Getting Slippery” and the various ‘ditties’ require a sense of humor and an appreciation for Claypool’s screwball exposition and performance style. Regardless, it is a wholly endearing experience when enjoyed properly and, like their earlier equally impressive records, showcases the band’s virtuosity, yet extends beyond earlier work through a more complete exploration of the band's entirely individual aesthetic.