Les Claypool

The Profile

Les Claypool is an American bassist, vocalist, and songwriter best known as the frontman of Primus. Renowned for virtuosic, idiosyncratic bass work and a nasal, cartoon-like delivery, he has led numerous projects and released solo albums including Of Whales and Woe and Of Fungi and Foe. He has also authored the novel South of the Pumphouse and directed Electric Apricot.

Frontman and bassist of Primus; early ties to Blind Illusion; side projects include Sausage; solo albums Of Whales and Woe (2006) and Of Fungi and Foe (2009); contributed music to Mushroom Men (video game) and Pig Hunt (film); author of South of the Pumphouse; directed the mockumentary Electric Apricot; known for using instruments such as the whamola, bass banjo, and resonator bass; live setups can feature viola and percussion; his shows have included nods to Primus (“Southbound Pachyderm”) and Sausage (“Riddles Are Abound Tonight”).

Five DeBaser reviews paint Les Claypool as a cult figure and fearless experimenter. His solo albums brim with twisted funk, jagged rhythms, and bass-first invention (whamola included). A 2010 Milan show showcased viola, percussion, and Claypool’s cartoonish vocals. The reviews also nod to his novel and film work, plus soundtrack pieces for games and movies.