Les Claypool
Of Whales And Woe

THE REVIEW

In 2006, the first true solo album by Les Claypool, the brilliant bassist of the equally brilliant Primus, was released.

The album starts with "Back off Turkey", a track that on first listen may leave you a bit puzzled, but nonetheless interesting. The following track is one of the best on the album, "One better". The song is characterized by its aggressive funky style that fits well with Les's nasally voice and features a stunning slap bass riff, just like only he can do. The same goes for "Nothin ventured" and "Phantom patriot", which along with the aforementioned "One better", are the best tracks on the album. There are also more experimental pieces like "Vernon the company man". "Robot chicken" is a 40-second interlude that precedes the two concluding tracks: "Filipino ray" and "Off white guilt". The first is a classic "Claypool-style" song, also characterized by an excellent bass riff, while the concluding piece is an instrumental that adds little to the quality of the work.

In conclusion, Les Claypool's solo debut (although in reality, good Les already has several projects to his credit) does not disappoint expectations but rather gives yet another confirmation of the indisputable talent of this extraordinary and brilliant artist. Awaiting a return of Primus...