Mr. Bungle
Mr. Bungle

THE REVIEW

I eagerly dust off one of the craziest CDs in my collection, because this album deserves not only a review but a true homage to compositional freedom! We're talking about the first album by Mr. Bungle, one of the many groups created by Mike Patton in his own image and likeness. Yes, indeed, the various songs perfectly reflect the multifaceted character of the former Faith No More singer, one of the few who always feels at home, whether singing hardcore or soul.

This journey begins with "Quote Unquote", and after 30 seconds of unusual silence, powerful, nearly metal guitars come into play, but immediately the rhythm changes to make way for unhealthy keyboard sounds and funky rhythms, then a jazzy part introduces the chorus, broken by a bridge that brings back calm, suddenly shattered by metal rhythms and Patton’s screaming.
You may be wondering what kind of track it might be, but this continuous shifting from genre to genre within a single song is the main theme of the entire album, where there isn’t a precise line to follow but one must surrender to the unpredictability of Patton and his associates. Thus, you will go from the ska beats of the carefree "Carousel" to the funky accelerations of "Squeeze Me Macaroni", to the more famous but eloquently titled "My Ass Is On Fire", centered on thrash metal rhythms.
The climax is reached with "The Girls of Porn", a title that explains itself, where funk and metal shuttle back and forth accompanied by horns.

The result of such wandering between genres and sudden mood swings could render the album fragmented and senseless if it weren’t for a band ready for anything and a Patton more of a captain than ever: the former are of excellent caliber and capable of playing any genre, not surprisingly, bassist Trevor Dunn is still a loyal comrade to Patton in Fantomas; the contribution of the horns is excellent as well.
As for Mr. Patton, this is one of the first demonstrations of his ability to employ a technique that allows him to deliver fierce and dirty singing, then wander between sweet whispers, then rap with disarming speed, seemingly without weaknesses.

It’s necessary to mention the producer’s name: a certain John Zorn, who, along with Zappa, will be one of Patton's mentors even for future experiences.
For those who love Patton, this album is a must, for those unfamiliar with him, prepare to drive your stereo crazy... and perhaps your brain too!!!

P.S.: I filed this under metal, but it’s very, very limiting!!!