Daily Staff Writer

“The Brown Album”

Primus

Primus’ newest release begins with high aspirations, as evidenced through the lyrics of “Return of Sathington Willoughby” (“It is my hope that we can utilize this meeting of the minds/To successfully convey the essence of our platform to you/A grand and noble audience”).

Unfortunately, “The Brown Album” never lives up to these expectations. Perhaps this is due to the absence of longtime-drummer Herb Alexander. His replacement, long-time Primus collaborator Brain, couldn’t provide a decent beat on this CD if a gun was pointed at his head.

Or maybe bassist and vocalist Les Claypool just doesn’t care anymore. He has already proven he is one of the best bassists ever. He has also proven he can write excellent, thoughtful lyrics that are humorous and witty.

But Claypool’s wit and talent seem diminished on this disc. “Fisticuffs” offers the same signature bass riffs Primus fans have learned to expect. So does “Golden Boy” and “Puddin’ Taine.” But there is not one single song that adds anything innovative or new to Claypool’s repertoire.

“Over The Falls,” “Shake Hands With Beef” and “Camelback Cinema” all offer truly pathetic lyrics. They also feature the same almost- constant tempo throughout the record, not to mention pathetic drumming and sparse guitar work.

“Hats Off” provides autobiographical lyrics that aren’t particularly revealing. It also sounds like everything else. “Bob’s Party Time Lounge” has great lyrics (“Pack my nose with cocaine/Feed my filthy hole”) but lacks melody and substance. “Restin’ Bones” also has great lyrics but is plagued by horrible instrumentation.

“Coddingtown” is the only departure from this calculated musical formula. It is almost as fast as the classic “Tommy the Cat.” But the heavy metal inlaid funk isn’t contagious by any means.

It is too bad Primus has become content resting on its laurels. The result is a waste of time and money for Primus fans. The group has so much talent, humor and entertainment to give the world, but “The Brown Album” just doesn’t deliver.

1 1/2 stars out of five.

— Ben Jones