Hubbry Logo
Les ClaypoolLes ClaypoolMain
Open search
Les Claypool
Community hub
Les Claypool
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Les Claypool
Les Claypool
Les Claypool
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Key Information

Leslie Edward Claypool (born September 29, 1963) is an American musician, best known as the founder, lead singer, bassist, and primary songwriter of Primus. Ranked as one of the greatest bassists of all time by Rolling Stone,[1] his unique playing style mixes tapping, flamenco-like strumming, whammy bar bends, and slapping.

Claypool has been involved in a number of non-Primus projects, including supergroups such as Oysterhead (with Trey Anastasio and Stewart Copeland) and Colonel Claypool's Bucket of Bernie Brains (with Buckethead, Bryan Mantia, and Bernie Worrell) and duos such as Duo de Twang (with Bryan Kehoe) and The Claypool Lennon Delirium (with Sean Lennon). He also fronts the experimental rock projects Colonel Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade and Les Claypool's Fancy Band. He has produced and engineered several of his own releases from Rancho Relaxo, which is his studio in California.

Claypool appears in the opening titles of the animated comedy series South Park, for which Primus has performed the theme song since its debut in 1997. In 2006, he made his debut as both a filmmaker and author when he wrote and directed the mockumentary Electric Apricot: Quest For Festeroo and released the novel South of the Pumphouse.

Early life

[edit]

Leslie Edward Claypool was born into a working-class family of car mechanics in Richmond, California, on September 29, 1963.[2] He was raised in El Sobrante, California. He learned to play the bass guitar at age 14, but did not begin a career in music until much later. He attended De Anza High School in Richmond, where he was friends with Kirk Hammett, and worked as a carpenter for several years after graduating from high school.[3][4]

Career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]

After the death of Metallica bassist Cliff Burton in 1986, Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett reconnected with his high school friend Claypool and asked him to audition as Burton's replacement. In Metallica's episode of the documentary series Behind the Music, Claypool said that he jokingly asked the members of Metallica if they wanted to "jam on some Isley Brothers tunes" during the audition, a reference to his lack of experience with Metallica's thrash metal style. He later recalled Hammett giving him a copy of Metallica's 1984 album Ride the Lightning, which he enjoyed, but also stressed he "wasn't a big metal guy" and did not realize how popular Metallica had become until he arrived at the audition.[3][5] He also did not realize at the time that the intro riff of "For Whom the Bell Tolls" was performed on bass, and thus did not play it during the audition.[5] Metallica frontman James Hetfield said that Claypool was not offered the job because "he was too good" and "should do his own thing". Claypool responded by admitting that he "wasn't the right guy" for the band due to being a self-proclaimed "weirdo" and said that Hetfield was just "being nice" with his comments.[3]

Primus

[edit]
Main article: Primus (band)
Claypool in 1998

Primus began as "Primate" in the mid-1980s. The band featured Claypool on bass, Todd Huth on guitar, and various drummers (most notably Jay Lane); however, Huth and Lane left shortly thereafter to pursue other projects. Claypool replaced them with guitarist Larry LaLonde and drummer Tim Alexander.

Claypool is considered to be the leader of the band, as well as the driving force behind its blending of funk with other genres. He frequently utilizes the slap-bass technique prominent in funk music, and is the only member of Primus who comes from a funk background. Because of Claypool's strong funk influence, Primus is often described as "thrash-funk" or funk metal,[6][7][8][9] although Claypool dislikes the labels. He said, "We've been lumped in with the funk metal thing just about everywhere. I guess people just have to categorize you.[10][11]

From 1989 to 2000, Primus gained significant mainstream airplay, headlining Lollapalooza in 1993 and appearing on Late Show with David Letterman and Late Night with Conan O'Brien in 1995. They also appeared at Woodstock '94, where they performed their Pork Soda hit "My Name Is Mud" and were pelted with mud by the audience, much to the band's displeasure. It drove Claypool to stop playing telling the audience "the song's called My Name is Mud, but keep the mud to yourself you son of a bitch".[12] In 1991, the band was featured in the movie Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey performing their song "Tommy the Cat" live. Claypool and Tom Waits first recorded on each other's records in 1991 and have continued to do so since. In 1997, Primus was asked to play and record the theme song for the animated television show South Park. In 1999, Claypool allowed Activision's use of the song "Jerry Was a Race Car Driver" in the popular video game Tony Hawk's Pro Skater. Primus went on hiatus in 2000.

In mid-2003, Claypool reunited with former Primus drummer Tim Alexander and guitarist Larry LaLonde to record a DVD/EP called Animals Should Not Try to Act Like People. In October of the same year, the band embarked on a two-month tour in which two sets were performed per show, the second set consisting of their 1991 release Sailing the Seas of Cheese being performed in its entirety. Primus continued touring into 2004, performing their 1990 release Frizzle Fry as their second set, as documented on the DVD Hallucino-Genetics: Live 2004.

On October 17, 2006, Primus released both their first greatest hits album, They Can't All Be Zingers, and their third DVD, Blame It on the Fish, subtitled An Abstract Look at the 2003 Primus Tour De Fromage. The band toured in 2006 on their Primus: The Beat a Dead Horse Tour 2006, and played at a small number of festivals in 2008. In 2010, Alexander, who had left the band for the second time due to lack of interest, was replaced by Jay Lane, who had not played with the band since 1988. The band resumed touring after the free June 2010 Rehearsal was released later that year, and a studio album, Green Naugahyde, was released in 2011.

In 2013, Lane left Primus for the second time to focus on his other band RatDog, who were coming off hiatus at the time, and was replaced again by Alexander. Primus' eighth studio album, Primus & the Chocolate Factory with the Fungi Ensemble, a re-imagining of the soundtrack from the 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, was released in October 2014.

In 2017, Primus released The Desaturating Seven, an album that is based on a bedtime story published by Italian author Ul de Rico, which is about a group of rainbow eating goblins. They then started a tour with Mastodon through most of 2018.

In 2024, Alexander resigned from Primus "effective immediately," seemingly retiring from music due to a "lost passion to play." The band announced plans to continue touring with members from Claypool's other bands and began searching for "the world's best drummer" to replace Alexander on X (formerly Twitter).

Solo work

[edit]

Sausage

[edit]
Main article: Sausage (band)

In 1988 Claypool began a short-lived alternative/funk rock band featuring Todd Huth on guitar and Jay Lane on drums. The group released their first album in April 1994 "Riddles Are Abound Tonight" by Prawn Song Records, and did a few short tours and opened for groups such as Helmet, Rollins Band, and Slayer. The band reunited for a show on December 31, 2019, opening for The Claypool Lennon Delirium and have not returned since.

Holy Mackerel

[edit]

In 1996, Claypool produced, engineered, and released a solo album, "Les Claypool and the Holy Mackerel presents" Highball with the Devil. He is credited with playing bass, and drums as well as vocals on several tracks as well as guitar. Also on the album are Mark "Mirv" Haggard, Adam Gates, Jay Lane, Joe Gore, Charlie Hunter, and Henry Rollins. The accompanying tour included Haggard and Gates on guitars with Bryan Mantia on drums. It was announced during the Holy Mackerel tour that Mantia had been chosen to become the next Primus drummer.[citation needed]

Oysterhead

[edit]
Main article: Oysterhead

In April 2000, Claypool collaborated with Trey Anastasio (of Phish) and Stewart Copeland (of the Police) to form a supergroup called Oysterhead. Claypool and Anastasio had been looking for an opportunity to collaborate. Each had a mutual interest in playing with Copeland who had been a rock idol of their teen years. Plus, Claypool and Copeland already had an established friendship. Oysterhead were originally intended as a one time performance during Jazz Fest in New Orleans. Though timid of the band's sudden and surprising popularity they decided to record and tour.[13] They released one studio album, The Grand Pecking Order, and toured before disbanding in 2001. They re-united in 2006, at the Bonnaroo Music Festival. In 2016 Les tried to reunite the group, but ended up releasing an album with The Claypool Lennon Delirium. Fortunately they re-united once again in 2020 for two shows at the 1stBank Center in Broomfield, Colorado, with the rest of their tour cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Frog Brigade

[edit]
Main article: Colonel Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade

In May 2000, Claypool formed Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade, an experimental rock group. He was asked to put together a band for the Mountain Aire Festival in Angels Camp, California. The band "of the most incredible guys (he) could possibly find" debuted that Memorial Day weekend and played a number of other festivals including moe.down.[13] Originally he was going to call the band "Les Claypool's Thunder Brigade". Claypool said:

I originally was going to do the two drummer thing with Herb and Jack Irons, so I was gonna call it the Les Claypool Thunder Brigade. Michael Bailey from Bill Graham Presents said to me that it may sound a bit too heavy for the Mountain Aire crowd and to perhaps try something a little different that had to do with the event itself. Since it was home of the Calaveras County Frog Jump... hence the Frog Brigade and then it evolved into Colonel Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade.[13]

The Primus hiatus allowed him to return to his musical roots, playing songs by bands such as Pink Floyd, King Crimson, and the Beatles. Claypool has called the Frog Brigade his "mid-life crisis band". From a set of October shows recorded at Great American Music Hall in San Francisco, Claypool released two Frog Brigade live albums, one being a cover of Pink Floyd's Animals. The line-up included Todd Huth, Eenor, Jeff Chimenti, Jay Lane, Skerik and Claypool.[citation needed]

The Frog Brigade is also noted for Claypool's being accepted into the jam band scene.[14] Live Frogs Set 1 won "Best Live Album" at the second annual Jammys. Jay Lane and Jeff Chimenti are both members of Bob Weir's bands Ratdog and Wolf Bros. Claypool performed with the Rat Brigade when opening for Ratdog once in 2000 and again in 2007.[15] The Rat Brigade includes Claypool, drummer Lane and keyboardist Chimenti, with guest appearances by saxophonist Kenny Brooks and Bob Weir. Claypool also guested on the Ratdog sets in 2000, 2006 and 2009.[16]

In 2002, Claypool released a studio album of the Frog Brigade, Purple Onion. Musicians on multiple tracks for Purple Onion include Warren Haynes (Gov't Mule) Eenor, Mike Dillon, Skerik, Jay Lane, Ben Barnes, and Sam Bass (Dillon and Skerik were both from Critters Buggin; Barnes and Sam Bass were from Deadweight). The album includes "Whamola" which later appeared as a remix for the theme of South Park Season 10.

C2B3

[edit]
Main article: Colonel Claypool's Bucket of Bernie Brains

Also in 2002, Claypool collaborated with guitarist Buckethead, Parliament-Funkadelic/Talking Heads keyboardist Bernie Worrell, and former Primus drummer Bryan Mantia under the name Colonel Claypool's Bucket of Bernie Brains (stylized "C2B3," which is pronounced as "C Squared, B Cubed"). Their concerts pushed the improvisational envelope by preparing no material and not rehearsing beforehand. At one of their shows they prepared sandwiches onstage for the audience to eat.

C2B3 re-united in 2004 to record The Big Eyeball in the Sky, an album with equal parts instrumental and vocal songs. The band began an 18-state tour of the US on September 24, 2004. Aux TV was dismissive of Claypool's effort,[17] but when the tour arrived in Northern California where Claypool lives the local press gave a very positive review.[18]

The album features only one guest, the childlike multi-instrumentalist Gabby La La (noted as Gabby Lang on Les Claypool's Frog Brigade's Purple Onion) on vocals and sitar. She also opened on every show (sometimes to scathingly negative reviews) during the 2004 tour as a solo act, and sometimes with members of C2B3. Claypool also produced and performed on Gabby La La's first album, Be Careful What You Wish For.... Gabby La La is the first artist Les has signed to his label since Charlie Hunter in 1993. He has performed select shows with her (including the 2005 Bonnaroo Music Festival) and added her to his then new touring band, Les Claypool & His Fancy Band. The 2005 Fancy Band line-up also included Skerik, Dillon and Lane.

At the end of 2005, Claypool released 5 Gallons of Diesel, a video retrospective of all of his work away from Primus.

2006

[edit]
Of Whales and Woe and the Fancy Band
[edit]
Main articles: Of Whales and Woe and Les Claypool's Fancy Band

On May 30, 2006, Claypool released a solo album, Of Whales and Woe, with guest appearances by Skerik, Mike Dillon, and Gabby La La. The album includes the song "Robot Chicken", which is the theme song of the show of the same name that airs on Adult Swim. His son Cage and his daughter Lena make a special appearance on the song "Back Off Turkey". The release was followed by a tour of the U.S. with the following lineup:

  • Les Claypool – Bass Guitar, Upright Bass, Bassjo, vocals
  • Skerik – Tenor Saxophone
  • Mike Dillon – Vibraphone, Percussion
  • Gabby La La – Sitar, Theremin
  • Paulo Baldi – Drums

The lineup is called Les Claypool's Fancy Band and did national tours in both 2006 and 2007. A live DVD, Fancy, was recorded from the 2006 tour and released in 2007. The audio track includes a mix of both soundboard and taper recordings. A song from the album, "One Better", was used in National Lampoon's TV: The Movie in a fight scene between Preston Lacy and Lee Majors.

2007–2016

[edit]
Claypool playing an upright bass in 2009

Besides touring in the summer of 2007 nationally with the Fancy Band, Claypool performed that October with a version of the band, dubbed the Fancy Trio. The trio consisted of Claypool, Skerik on saxophone, and Mike Dillon on drums, vibraphone and percussion. They played at The Echo Project, an inaugural ecologically minded 3-day festival in Fairburn, Georgia on the Boukeart family farm. The set was similar to that of the Fancy Band's tours, culling from Claypool' solo and Frog Brigade albums, as well containing a cover of "One Step Beyond" by Prince Buster and teases of other songs, including several Primus tunes, throughout their improvisational jams.

For many years Claypool has done a New Year's Eve show at The Fillmore in San Francisco. More recently the New Year's Eve show has been an annual New Year's Eve Hatter's Ball featuring a hat contest. December 31, 2007 was the 3rd such annual event.

In 2008, a United States tour spanned from February 29 to April 5. It kicked off at the Neighborhood Theatre in Charlotte, North Carolina and ended at The Warfield in San Francisco. The 2008 tour was a quartet featuring Claypool, Dillon, Skerik and Baldi.

During the year Claypool also performed several shows with Primus at festivals across America and Canada.Pig Hunt is a film directed by James Isaac released in 2008. Claypool contributes previously unreleased material and plays the role of "The Preacher".[19][20] He composed several songs for the Wii game Mushroom Men, released in December 2008.

On December 31, 2008, Claypool rang in the New Year with his annual New Year's Eve show. It was at the San Francisco Opera House with Zappa Plays Zappa sharing the bill and playing first.

Claypool was also a judge for the 7th annual Independent Music Awards. His contributions helped assist upcoming independent artists' careers.[21] His second solo album, Of Fungi and Foe, was released on March 17, 2009. The album consists of expanded material of the music from the Mushroom Men game, as well as the Pig Hunt motion picture, and features a guest appearance by Gogol Bordello's Eugene Hutz.[22]

In 2009, Claypool toured with Matisyahu, performing as a 'double-feature' set, as well as appearing together on stage. On March 28, 2010, Claypool performed a rendition of Rush's "The Spirit of Radio" for their induction into the Canadian Songwriter's Hall of Fame.[23]

From May 2010 to July 2013, Claypool toured extensively with Primus, alongside Larry LaLonde, and the return of former Primus drummer, Jay Lane. On September 6, 2012, a new side project was revealed as an acoustic band called Duo de Twang.[24] Featuring Claypool and originally Marc Haggard. After two shows, Haggard was replaced with Bryan Kehoe. Both guitarists play together in the associated band M.I.R.V.

On September 25, 2013, it was announced Lane had left Primus to rejoin the Bob Weir group RatDog. Tim Alexander was named as his replacement. Claypool and Dean Ween worked together for a reality TV show called Musishermen.[25]

On February 4, 2014, Duo de Twang released their debut album Four Foot Shack and began touring in late February.[26] During the last part of the 2014 Spring Tour, Primus's drummer, Tim Alexander, had a small heart attack rendering him unable to play. Luckily instead of canceling the September shows, they were able to use their close friend Danny Carey as a drummer for the late shows.[27]

On January 19, 2016, it was announced that The Claypool Lennon Delirium, a collaboration between Claypool and Sean Lennon, would debut at Bonnaroo 2016.[28] Claypool has spoken fondly of the collaboration, stating, "Sean is a musical mutant after my own heart. He definitely reflects his genetics – not just the sensibilities of his dad, but also the abstract perspective and unique approach of his mother. It makes for a glorious freak stew."[29]

On March 21, 2016, it was announced that the duo would release their debut album, entitled Monolith of Phobos, on June 3, 2016.[30] Their second album, South of Reality, was released February 22, 2019.[31]

On May 31, 2016, he was featured on the Death Grips song "More Than The Fairy".[32]

The Claypool Lennon Delirium

[edit]

In 2016, Claypool formed a group with Sean Lennon of The Ghost of a Saber Tooth Tiger, Paulo Baldi of Cake, and João Nogueira of Stone Giant. Claypool met Lennon in 2015 when he was on tour with Primus, The Ghost of a Saber Tooth Tiger, and Dinosaur Jr. Claypool stayed in touch with Lennon and the group released their first album The Monolith Of Phobos in 2016. On their first tour they switched out their keyboardist Money Mark of Beastie Boys for Pete Drungle. In 2017, The Delirium returned with their EP Lime And Limpid Green and released their second album South Of Reality in 2019, this time with Nogueira on keyboards.

Other work

[edit]

Claypool was a special guest star in a Space Ghost Coast to Coast episode with the most celebrities on Cartoon Network in 1996.

Claypool's first book, South of the Pumphouse, was released on July 1, 2006, by Akashic Books. Copies of the book were sold during his 2006 tour of the U.S. following the release of Of Whales and Woe. The book is a dark tale of brothers, murder, drugs, and fishing; it has been likened to the work of Hunter S. Thompson. Claypool gave his first interview about the book on May 11, 2006.[33]

Also in 2006, Claypool wrote and directed the mockumentary film Electric Apricot: Quest For Festeroo. It was shown at various film festivals and is a spoof of the jam band scene centered on the fake band Electric Apricot, with Claypool also playing the band's drummer and backing vocalist.[34] The band performed real shows in the California area (such as High Sierra Music Festival) for the filming of the movie. During a question and answer session at the Tiburon Film Festival, where the film debuted, he said that the DVD would have an accompanying soundtrack CD. The film has won awards including Best Feature (audience choice) at the Malibu Film Festival. Claypool also said that the band would possibly perform a few select shows, but a tour never transpired as the film's star Adam Gates worked for Pixar, which made touring difficult.

In 2007, Claypool created Claypool Cellars, a wine-making project that turned into a boutique business. It makes wine from grapes grown in California's Russian River Valley. The wines are named based on his music, such as "Purple Pachyderm" and "Pink Platypus".[35] "Purple Pachyderm" in particular was co-created alongside Claypool's wife, Chaney.[36]

Artistry

[edit]

Claypool is well known for his "quirky and eccentric" style of bass playing, and is noted for his musical versatility.[37] In addition to the sheer prominence of his bass playing on recorded works throughout his discography, Claypool's style also incorporates several other unusual techniques, such as flamenco-style strumming, tapping, slapping, and guitar-like chording. He has made prominent use of a Kahler "bass tremolo" vibrato system, as well as effects such as fuzz boxes and envelope filters. For most of his career, Claypool has played four-stringed basses, but has experimented with extended-range basses, most notably six-stringed models, as heard on songs like "Jerry Was a Race Car Driver", which features Claypool tapping the main melody on a fretless six-string bass; Claypool noted he was "getting more into the six-string" during the making of Pork Soda, giving the album a heavier edge.[38]

Claypool has cited Rush and their bassist Geddy Lee, Larry Graham, Chris Squire, Tony Levin, Roger Waters, Paul McCartney, Geezer Butler, Bootsy Collins, Stanley Clarke, John Paul Jones, and the Residents as being musical influences.[2][39]

Equipment

[edit]
Claypool playing the Whamola in 2006

Claypool has, for a long time, endorsed Carl Thompson basses, but also uses a custom "Pachyderm" bass built by luthier Dan Maloney, and an NS Design upright bass. He uses Mesa/Boogie amplifiers, and an extensive set of effect pedals.[40]

Personal life

[edit]

Claypool married clothes designer Chaney Smith in December 1995.[41] They reside in Sonoma County, California,[42] and have a son and daughter together.[43][44]

A bottle of Pinot Noir from Purple Pachyderm.

Claypool is known for his eccentric personality, surreal sense of humor, cannabis use and his love of wine.[45] His love of wine led him to start the process of opening Pachyderm Station in Sebastopol, California with his wife Chaney in 2007. They produce high-end wine with the aim of providing the utmost flavor and quality, mainly focusing on Pinot Noir wines and Champagne.[46] The company, whose name is Purple Pachyderm, originally released their wine in 2012. Ross Cobb and Katy Wilson were hired as the wine makers at the inception, but Wilson left in 2018 to pursue other ventures. The store and restaurant are open to the public for wine tasting and meals, where Les has a food truck that serves his Whamola Weiners, which are a high-end hotdog.[46]

"Les Claypool Day" was declared by Cincinnati mayor John Cranley on June 12, 2018. It was presented to Claypool during Primus' show that night at the Riverbend Music Center by members of the Cincinnati USA Music Heritage Foundation, alongside Claypool's friend and influence Bootsy Collins.[47]

Discography

[edit]
Year Artist Title
1986 Primus Primus Sucks Demo Tape
1988 Blind Illusion The Sane Asylum
Primus Sausage (demo)
1989 Suck on This (live album)
1990 Frizzle Fry
1991 Sailing the Seas of Cheese
1992 Miscellaneous Debris (EP)
1993 Pork Soda
1994 Sausage Riddles Are Abound Tonight (1988 Primus line-up reunion)
1995 Primus Tales from the Punchbowl
1996 Les Claypool and the Holy Mackerel Highball with the Devil
1997 Primus Brown Album
1998 Rhinoplasty (EP)
1999 Buckethead Monsters and Robots (Claypool features on and co-wrote 6 of the 13 tracks)
Primus Antipop
2001 Colonel Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade Live Frogs Set 1 (live album)
Live Frogs Set 2 (live album)
Oysterhead The Grand Pecking Order
2002 The Les Claypool Frog Brigade Purple Onion
2003 Primus Animals Should Not Try to Act Like People (EP/DVD set)
2004 Colonel Claypool's Bucket of Bernie Brains The Big Eyeball in the Sky
2006 Les Claypool Of Whales and Woe
Primus They Can't All Be Zingers (greatest hits compilation album)
2008 Electric Apricot Quest for Festeroo (soundtrack) (Claypool features on and co-wrote 5 of the 12 tracks)
2009 Les Claypool Of Fungi and Foe
2010 Primus June 2010 Rehearsal (EP)
2011 Green Naugahyde
2014 Les Claypool's Duo de Twang Four Foot Shack
Primus Primus & the Chocolate Factory with the Fungi Ensemble
2016 The Claypool Lennon Delirium Monolith of Phobos
2017 Lime and Limpid Green
Primus The Desaturating Seven
2018 Beanpole All My Kin
2019 The Claypool Lennon Delirium South of Reality
2022 Primus Conspiranoid (EP)
South Park: The 25th Anniversary Experience
2024 Primus 'SESSANTA' Sessanta EPPP[48] (Featuring Maynard James Keenan)

Guest appearances

[edit]

(Claypool on bass unless otherwise noted)

Soundtracks and compilations

[edit]
See also: Primus discography § Compilations and soundtracks
  • 1991 – Guitars that Rule the World (promo for Guitar World magazine, featuring the original track "Filet of Soul" by Alex Skolnick with Claypool and Bryan Mantia)
  • 1993 – Radio 501 (promo for Levi's jeans, featuring the original track "Can't Live Without" by Claypool, Jay Lane & Rob Wasserman)
  • 2002 – NASCAR: Crank It Up (promo for NASCAR on Fox, featuring a cover of the Commander Cody track "Hot Rod Lincoln" recorded by Claypool)
  • 2002 – Bonnaroo Music Festival 2002 (live album, featuring the Les Claypool's Frog Brigade track "Locomotive Breath")
  • 2002 – Bonnaroo Vol. 2 (live album, featuring the Colonel Claypool's Bucket of Bernie Brains track "Number Two")
  • 2004 – Concrete Corner: October Sampler 2004 (featuring the Colonel Claypool's Bucket of Bernie Brains track "Junior")
  • 2004 – Never Been Done (soundtrack, featuring the Les Claypool's Frog Brigade track "David Makalaster")
  • 2004 – Not In Our Name (benefit compilation album, featuring the Les Claypool's Frog Brigade track "David Makalaster II")
  • 2004 – Under the Influence: Tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd (compilation album, track "Call Me the Breeze")
  • 2006 – Barnyard (soundtrack, featuring the original track "Hittin' the Hay" by North Mississippi Allstars with Claypool)
  • 2008 – Pig Hunt (soundtrack, featuring the original tracks "Goblins in the Forest", "What You Lookin' At Boy?", "Boonville Stomp" and "Male Organ-Grinder")
Television show theme songs
  • 2005–present – Robot Chicken: seasons 1–4 ("Robot Chicken", released on Of Whales and Woe, 2006)
  • 2006–present – South Park: seasons 10–16 (mashup of "Whamola" by Les Claypool's Frog Brigade and "South Park Theme" by Primus)
Video game soundtracks

Videography

[edit]
See also: Primus discography § Video albums
1991 – Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey, features Les Claypool performing with Primus.[50]
2002 – Rising Low (Documentary on Allen Woody, directed by Mike Gordon)
2002 – Various Artists – Live from Bonnaroo Music Festival 2002 (featuring Les Claypool's Frog Brigade and Colonel Claypool's Bucket of Bernie Brains)
2003 – Gov't Mule – The Deepest End, Live In Concert
2005 – Les Claypool – 5 Gallons of Diesel
2007 – Les Claypool – Fancy
2008 – Electric Apricot: Quest for Festeroo (Rock- mockumentary feature film)
2011 – A Cure for Pain: The Mark Sandman Story (documentary on Mark Sandman)

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Les Claypool

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Les Edward Claypool (born September 29, 1963) is an American musician recognized primarily as the bassist, lead vocalist, and principal songwriter of the band Primus, which he co-founded in 1984. Claypool's distinctive technique, characterized by advanced slapping, , and use of custom upright basses like the , has positioned him among the most innovative players in . Primus achieved commercial success in the early with albums such as and singles like "Jerry Was a Racecar Driver," blending , and psychedelic elements into a surreal, narrative-driven sound. Beyond Primus, Claypool has pursued an extensive array of solo endeavors and collaborations, including the Fearless Flying Frog Brigade, with Phish's , and alongside , releasing albums that explore experimental and improvisational territories. His prolific output underscores a commitment to boundary-pushing creativity, often incorporating theatrical live performances and thematic storytelling rooted in absurdity and social observation.

Early Life

Family Background and Upbringing

Leslie Edward Claypool was born on September 29, 1963, in . His parents divorced when he was four years old, resulting in him effectively growing up with two sets of parents after both remarried. The family resided in working-class neighborhoods including Richmond, , and primarily El Sobrante, a in Contra Costa County east of . Claypool's upbringing occurred amid the broader economic transitions in the Bay Area during the , when Richmond's industrial base—once bolstered by shipyards and refineries—saw a decline in higher-paying roles, replaced by lower-wage service jobs that strained many working-class households. His family's involvement in auto mechanics reflected this blue-collar milieu, common in the region's postwar suburban expansions. The familial instability from the early and the self-sufficient ethos of his surroundings contributed to Claypool's development of , as he navigated split households and environments emphasizing practical resourcefulness over institutional .

Initial Exposure to

Claypool first encountered the around age 14, selecting the instrument after finding the guitar's sound insufficiently resonant during high school dances where local bands performed. He cited Rush bassist Geddy Lee's playing as a primary early influence, drawn to its melodic and rhythmic complexity. Opting against formal instruction, Claypool taught himself primarily by repeated listening to records, developing an intuitive approach that emphasized percussive, thumb-driven techniques akin to slapping, though he later disputed the "slap bass" label for his style. This method allowed him to experiment freely, incorporating elements from 's groove-oriented lines, metal's aggressive riffing, and psychedelia's unconventional structures during informal high school jam sessions and garage practices. These early explorations prioritized tactile feel over theory, fostering a bass-centric sound that prioritized groove and odd time signatures, influenced also by experimental acts like , which encouraged boundary-pushing improvisation. By honing these skills independently, Claypool built a foundation distinct from conventional roles, focusing on lead-like expressiveness derived from direct emulation of recordings rather than structured pedagogy.

Career

Pre-Primus Activities

Claypool entered the professional music scene immediately after graduating high school in 1981, joining the Tommy Crank Band as for gigs centered on rock and rhythm-and-blues covers in biker bars during his early 20s. These performances exposed him to demanding live environments, where he developed foundational stage presence and adaptability amid rowdy audiences. By the mid-1980s, Claypool contributed to the Bay Area's burgeoning thrash and underground through Blind Illusion, a band originally formed in 1978 but featuring him on bass alongside guitarist during recordings for their 1988 album The Sane Asylum. Blind Illusion's style blended intricate progressive elements with aggressive thrash riffing, allowing Claypool to refine techniques in complex time signatures and dynamic bass lines within a high-energy metal context. This period immersed him in San Francisco's DIY venue circuit, where bands self-promoted shows at clubs and warehouses amid the era's competitive thrash scene dominated by acts like Exodus. In 1983 and 1984, Claypool formed short-lived ensembles to explore original material, including with guitarist and a , emphasizing experimental structures and rhythmic over covers. These groups reflected a trial-and-error approach, prioritizing odd meters and spontaneous interplay funded through personal resources and sporadic local bookings, as Claypool sought to break from cover-band constraints in economically challenging Bay Area venues. Such endeavors underscored a self-reliant , with Claypool handling much of the logistical and financial burdens typical of unsigned acts hustling for exposure in the pre-digital era.

Primus Formation and Early Success

Primus was formed in 1984 in El Sobrante, California, by bassist and vocalist Les Claypool and guitarist , initially using a dubbed "Perm Parker" before recruiting drummer . The trio, originally called Primate, performed covers of bands like Rush and Metallica in local clubs, gradually incorporating original material characterized by Claypool's prominent bass lines and whimsical lyrics. By 1988, with Huth and Lane still in the lineup, they recorded a demo tape titled Riddles Are Abound Tonight, which helped cultivate a dedicated underground following amid the emerging scene. In 1989, following Huth's departure, Claypool enlisted guitarist Larry "Ler" LaLonde, formerly of the death metal band Possessed, and drummer Tim "Herb" Alexander, completing the lineup that would define Primus's core sound of funk metal infused with experimental elements. This configuration shifted fully to original compositions, emphasizing Claypool's slap bass technique and the band's genre-defying rhythms. The group self-released the live album Suck on This in November 1989, recorded at Berkeley Square in Berkeley, California, which captured their high-energy performances and sold modestly but built momentum through word-of-mouth in the pre-grunge alternative circuit. Primus's debut studio album, Frizzle Fry, followed on February 7, 1990, via Caroline Records, featuring tracks like "John the Fisherman" that highlighted their quirky, bass-driven style and helped solidify a niche fanbase in the burgeoning alternative rock landscape. The album's release preceded the mainstream explosion of grunge, positioning Primus as innovators blending funk, metal, and absurdity against the era's shifting rock paradigms. Signed to , Primus achieved their breakthrough with on May 14, 1991, whose lead single "Jerry Was a Race Car Driver" gained heavy rotation on , exposing their eccentric visuals and sound to a national audience. The album peaked at number 116 on the and number 2 on the Heatseekers chart, propelling extensive touring in 1991 and 1992 that amplified their reputation for live improvisation and technical prowess. This -driven visibility marked Primus's transition from cult favorites to staples, with the album eventually certified platinum for over one million U.S. sales. The 1993 release of on April 20 further capitalized on this momentum, debuting at number 7 on the and achieving certification in September 1993 before reaching platinum in May 1997 with sales exceeding one million units. Primus co-headlined the 1993 Lollapalooza tour alongside , performing sets that included staples like "" and reinforcing their status amid the festival's rotation of alternative and metal acts. These milestones underscored Primus's ability to thrive commercially through their distinctive, irreverent approach during alternative rock's mid-1990s peak.

Primus Evolution and Challenges

Primus reached a commercial milestone with the release of on October 19, 1999, via Prawn Song Records and Interscope, marking their sixth studio album and an attempt to collaborate with multiple producers amid shifting rock landscapes. The album debuted amid extensive touring, including the Tour spanning 1999–2000, appearances, and the , with the band performing approximately 85 concerts in 1999 alone. Their set at on July 23, 1999, preceded chaotic crowd behavior later attributed to subsequent acts, though frontman Les Claypool declined to criticize , emphasizing personal accountability over blame. Earlier lineup changes contributed to evolving dynamics, as original drummer Tim "Herb" Alexander departed in 1996 citing physical fatigue, mental strain, and a desire for more serious musical pursuits beyond Primus's whimsical style, which he found increasingly "cartoony." Primus replaced him with Bryan "" Mantia, enabling the release of The Brown Album in 1997 and sustaining momentum into , though creative frictions over artistic direction persisted, reflecting broader tensions in the band's experimental funk-metal approach. By 2000, mounting pressures culminated in an indefinite hiatus announcement, driven by collective burnout, interference in production, and eroded enjoyment, with Claypool later describing Antipop as feeling "forced" amid strained inter-band relationships and the rise of nu-metal influences that clashed with their core sound. Claypool pursued solo endeavors, highlighting how external demands and internal discord had transformed the collaborative process into an obligation rather than a creative outlet.

Primus Reunion and Contemporary Output

Primus reformed with original drummer Tim "Herb" Alexander in 2003 following a period of hiatus, enabling sporadic activity that intensified in the . Alexander departed again in 2010 due to health issues, leading to Jay Lane's temporary return for the band's seventh studio album, , released on September 13, 2011, via and Prawn Song Records. The album marked Primus's first full-length release in over a decade, featuring tracks like "Hennepin Crawler" and emphasizing the group's style. Lane exited in 2013, prompting Alexander's second return to the lineup alongside bassist/vocalist Les Claypool and guitarist Larry "Ler" LaLonde. This configuration produced the eighth studio album, , on September 29, 2017, a inspired by a 1978 children's book, The Rainbow Goblins, with seven tracks structured around its narrative. Limited edition vinyl releases and accompanying animations underscored the band's approach. The trio maintained activity through extensive touring in the late and , including tribute performances and festival appearances, adapting to venue capacities amid shifting industry dynamics. In 2022, Primus issued the three-track Conspiranoid EP on April 22, addressing themes of through extended compositions like the 12-minute "Conspiranoia." Alexander's abrupt departure via email on October 17, 2024, citing personal reasons, disrupted stability, leading to an open audition process that reviewed over 6,000 submissions and temporary substitutions by drummers like Tool's . Despite lineup flux, Primus persisted with the "Onward & Upward" tour in 2025, co-headlining with . The band's output reflects a dedicated niche audience, with cumulative album sales exceeding 2.5 million units historically, though recent releases prioritize vinyl and streaming over mass-market peaks. Claypool has attributed enduring appeal to Primus's unconventional sound and avoidance of mainstream trends in interviews, sustaining live draw without broad commercial dominance. This persistence amid the streaming era highlights adaptation through direct fan engagement rather than algorithmic virality.

Solo Projects and Collaborations

Claypool's first major non-Primus endeavor was the 1994 reunion of his early band , featuring guitarist and drummer , which resulted in the album Riddles Are Abound Tonight released on . The project drew from their pre-Primus material, emphasizing elements, and included a limited tour supporting acts like and . In 1996, Claypool launched his debut solo project as Les Claypool and , releasing on Interscope, where he handled bass, vocals, guitars, and drums alongside guest musicians including Henry Kaiser on guitar. The album showcased with carnival-like themes and string arrangements, supported by live performances at venues like . Claypool formed the live-oriented Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade in 2000, incorporating brass sections and releasing the double live album Live Frogs Set 1 followed by the studio effort in 2002, both on Prawn Song Records, featuring rotating collaborators like saxophonist and percussionist Mike Dillon. These works highlighted improvisational and whimsy, with tours emphasizing Claypool's multi-instrumental setup. The supergroup emerged in 2000, uniting Claypool on bass with guitarist and drummer ; their debut album arrived in 2001 via Elektra, blending , , and across tracks like "Oz Is Ever Floating." The trio toured extensively that year, reuniting sporadically for festivals including Bonnaroo in 2019. In 2002, Claypool initiated Colonel Claypool's Bucket of Bernie Brains, an experimental noise ensemble with guitarist , keyboardist of , and drummer Bryan "Brain" Mantia of Primus and ; they issued The Big Eyeball in the Sky in 2004 on Prawn Song, characterized by jam-heavy structures and avant-garde electronics. Live sets from 2003–2005 captured extended improvisations, ending with a 2005 DVD release 5 Gallons of Diesel. Claypool's ongoing collaboration with Sean Lennon formed The Claypool Lennon Delirium in 2016, yielding psychedelic rock albums Monolith of Phobos (2016), South of Reality (2019), and Blood and Rockets: Movement I, Saga of Jack Parsons – Movement II, The Silver Sword (2023), self-produced at Claypool's Rancho Relaxo studio and released via ATO Records. The duo's output integrates Lennon's melodic structures with Claypool's bass-driven eccentricity, supported by tours and EPs like Lime and Limpid Green (2017).

Recent Developments in Projects

In 2023, Les Claypool revived Colonel Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade after a 20-year hiatus, launching the 41-date Summer of Green Tour starting May 17 in Jacksonville, Florida, featuring full performances of Pink Floyd's Animals album alongside original material. The ensemble, including saxophonist Skerik and members from prior iterations, expanded to the Hunt for Green October Tour in October, adding East Coast dates like Brooklyn Steel on October 22 and emphasizing two-set formats with extended improvisations. These outings demonstrated Claypool's pivot to live reinterpretations of catalog material, drawing audiences to mid-sized venues and festivals such as Riverbend Festival, where setlists blended Frog Brigade staples like "Riddles Are Abound Tonight" with covers. Claypool debuted the improvisational ensemble Bastard Jazz for New Year's Eve shows on December 31, 2023, at San Francisco's Great American Music Hall, featuring saxophonist , vibraphonist Mike Dillon, and drummer on loan from . The group's explorations underscored Claypool's embrace of spontaneous collaboration amid streaming's dominance, with subsequent 2025 bookings including headlining Festival de FRUE in Shizuoka, , on November 2, and two nights at Tokyo's on November 4 and 5. The February 9, 2024, release of the box set compiled five remastered albums from Claypool's early solo ventures under Prawn Song Records, including (Frog Brigade), , and Bucket of Bernie Brains, marking the vinyl debut of The Big Eyeball in the Sky. This archival effort, announced in October 2023, targeted collectors and reinforced viability through physical media in an era where Claypool's Spotify monthly listeners hover around 118,000, sustained by niche festival slots like Festival de FRUE rather than broad commercial hits.

Artistry

Bass Techniques and Innovations

Les Claypool employs a distinctive variation of the slap-pop technique, where the thumb strikes the string laterally to produce a sharp, percussive "thump" that emulates the pizzicato attack of upright bass, yielding a woody transient with minimal sustain compared to conventional slaps that prioritize ringing tones. This method derives from his experience playing on tracks like "," where the instrument's inherent string tension and body resonance enforce a defined initial pluck impulse, translating to electric bass via precise thumb positioning to mimic that mechanical snap. In practice, Claypool initiates phrases with thumps followed by pops or frails, layering syncopated hammer-ons and pull-offs across all four to achieve rapid articulation without relying solely on downstrokes, as demonstrated in breakdowns of Primus riffs like "Lacquer Head," which incorporate muted slaps, left-hand slaps for , and strummed chord pops to generate interlocking percussive densities. These mechanics exploit decay, where the 's side impact dampens overtones immediately after onset, allowing clean separation of subsequent notes in dense passages. Claypool's polyrhythmic approach involves superimposing independent limb motions—such as slaps against finger-plucked ostinatos—to create cross-rhythmic tensions, often resolved through setups that extend note sustain via modified pickups, enabling sustained drones beneath transient hits as seen in live demonstrations. This causal linkage between technique and sustain modification facilitates phrases where percussive attacks overlay prolonged fundamentals, avoiding muddiness. His use of odd meters, such as the 11/8 in "Eleven" grouped as 3+3+3+2, stems from intuitive subdivision rather than theoretical notation, partitioning beats into asymmetric clusters that align with bass line phrasing mechanics, as the uneven pulse forces adaptive finger independence to maintain groove stability. This method prioritizes rhythmic displacement over even division, where the bass drives propulsion by anchoring irregular accents, verifiable in transcriptions showing how pops lock onto off-beats within the meter.

Vocal and Songwriting Approach

Claypool's vocal delivery is characterized by a distinctive nasal , often described as high-pitched and cartoonish, which serves to enhance the eccentricity of his performances. This approach draws from traditions, incorporating spoken-word elements and character impersonations derived from personal anecdotes, such as fishing tales shared among friends, evolving into broader satirical s. In tracks like "" from Primus's 1991 album , Claypool employs a stream-of-consciousness style to depict a feline protagonist's exploits, blending whimsy with subtle critiques of and fleeting pleasures without overt moral judgment. His songwriting emphasizes rhythmic interplay between vocals and instrumentation, prioritizing syncopated phrasing that aligns with bass lines over conventional melodic structure. Claypool has noted the inherent challenge of maintaining vocal precision while executing complex bass patterns, a balance achieved through that favors percussive delivery over sustained . Vocal effects, such as pitch-shifted mimicry to embody characters—like the gravelly feline voice contrasting the narrator's whine in ""—amplify the theatricality, rooted in influences like , though Claypool adapts them to fit absurd, non-didactic tales of excess. Over time, Claypool's lyrics transitioned from early-career absurdity, exemplified by anthropomorphic satires on in the , to later explorations of isolation and introspection, as seen in solo works like Of Whales and Woe (2006), where narrative depth reflects personal and societal detachment without resorting to sanitized or prescriptive interpretations. This evolution maintains a commitment to unfiltered, observational realism, avoiding moralizing in favor of evocative, character-driven vignettes that invite listener inference.

Equipment and Custom Gear

Les Claypool primarily employs custom bass guitars built by Carl Thompson, favoring 4-string models for their tight response and ergonomic design tailored to his playing demands. A notable example is the walnut-bodied 4-string featuring an EMG 35 pickup and Kahler system, which delivers articulate attack essential for his percussive phrasing in Primus recordings and live performances. For expanded tonal range, Claypool utilizes Carl Thompson 6-string basses, including a 36-inch scale fretless model tuned from B to C, providing a powerful low-end extension without loss of definition, as deployed in tracks such as "" and "Bob." The corresponding fretted 6-string variant, with light-gauge strings and narrow spacing, supports precise while yielding a resonant, subsonic depth described by Claypool as "farty," heard in "DMV" and "Hamburger Train." Historically, amplification via heads like the MB450E has underpinned the clarity of Claypool's slap techniques, owing to the brand's emphasis on high-fidelity transient reproduction that preserves percussive snap. In contemporary setups, he favors Subway D-800 heads coupled with four Subway Ultra-Lite 1x12 cabinets, selected for their balanced output and reduced weight. Following 2020, Claypool transitioned from primary reliance on Carl Thompson basses to the Pachyderm 4-string maple model, co-developed with luthier and equipped with an EMG PA pickup and LED fret markers, to mitigate maintenance demands of instruments and streamline touring logistics with a lighter, more durable rig. This shift maintains sonic integrity through comparable punch while easing setup and repair in rigorous schedules.

Other Contributions

Soundtracks and Media Work

Claypool, through Primus, contributed the track "Poetry and Prose" to The Beavis and Butt-Head Experience, a 1993 featuring music inspired by the , which included intros and outros with dialogue from the show. Primus songs such as "" were also featured in episodes of , aligning with the band's style and the series' irreverent humor. In 1997, Claypool and Primus composed and recorded the main theme song for the animated series , at the request of creators and , who were fans of the band's music and sought a quirky, energetic track to match the show's offbeat tone. The theme, performed by Claypool on bass and vocals alongside Parker and Stone, debuted with the on August 13, 1997, and has endured with minimal alterations across over 300 episodes and specials. This composition process involved rapid collaboration, with Primus delivering the instrumental foundation that Parker and Stone adapted with lyrics, resulting in a signature riff-driven opener that propelled the theme's cultural recognition. Claypool's media work extends to other television contributions, including composing the theme for , the Adult Swim stop-motion sketch series that debuted in 2005, where his bass-heavy, eccentric style complemented the program's satirical content. These soundtrack efforts, alongside selective licensing of Primus material for films, games, and documentaries, served as pragmatic outlets for Claypool's compositions, broadening the band's reach beyond albums while tying into synergistic cultural properties.

Writing, Acting, and Business Ventures

Claypool authored his debut , South of the Pumphouse, published by Akashic Books in July 2006. The 200-page work depicts a brothers' excursion in rural that devolves into a confrontation involving drug use, family secrets, murder, and local prejudices. In , Claypool has appeared in minor roles across and . He featured as a henchman in Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey (1991), portraying one of the figures aiding the Grim Reaper, and made cameos in Zack and Miri Make a Porno (2008) and (2008), the latter involving rural horror elements tied to settings. For , he lent his voice to Farmer Gus in the animated series (2020) and Moxxy in The Murders of Brandywine Theater (2014). Claypool's business ventures emphasize rural self-reliance in Sonoma County. Since the early 2000s, he has maintained a personal farm in Sebastopol, stocking it with chickens, goats, and pigs to support an off-grid lifestyle amid his music career. Complementing this, he launched Claypool Cellars as a winemaking hobby in 2007, processing an initial 4 tons of Pinot Noir grapes into small-batch production; the first commercial release, under the Purple Pachyderm label, occurred in 2008. These efforts yield limited volumes focused on local varietals, with Claypool handling aspects like bottling to prioritize quality over scale, though specific market sales figures remain undisclosed.

Personal Life

Family and Lifestyle

Claypool married Chaney Claypool in 1995. The couple has two children: a , Cage Oliver, born in May 1996, and a daughter, Lena Tallulah. Claypool resides in the Russian River Valley region of Sonoma County, , near areas like Occidental and , embracing a rural lifestyle amid the area's natural landscapes. He is an avid , often tying his own flies and drawing inspiration from local waters, including runs, which serves as a grounding pursuit away from the demands of touring and recording. This hobby reflects a deliberate contrast to the excesses of the music industry, emphasizing outdoor solitude and observation of environmental changes in coastal fisheries.

Public Statements and Views

In the track "Conspiranoia" from Primus's 2022 EP Conspiranoid, Claypool critiqued the proliferation of conspiracy theories, including those associated with , as contributing to societal division. He described the song as originating from observations of "distrust and divide grow[ing] between friends, colleagues, relatives, and the general population because of the consumption and digesting of , , warped information, and flat-out fairy tales." The nearly 12-minute composition incorporated samples of QAnon-related content to satirize such narratives. Addressing , Claypool emphasized historical context in a 2023 interview, particularly regarding the interpretation of Primus's lyrics like those in "David Makalaster." He argued against decontextualized judgments of past work, reflecting concerns over retrospective scrutiny without regard for era-specific intent or . Claypool has advocated for amid political and environmental debates. In an August 10, 2022, interview, he acknowledged the tangible impacts of , noting, "The effects of climate change are hitting us pretty much everywhere. I live in where our homeowner’s insurance is being canceled because of fires." However, he stressed tolerance for differing views as long as they involve "rational thought, and rational dialogue," stating, "I have no problem with a viewpoint that’s either way left of me or way right of me, I just have a problem with the lack of rational thought... When people are spouting nonsensical, inflammatory (things), it’s counterproductive." This stance reflects an evolution from earlier expressions of liberal dissatisfaction with George W. Bush's administration in the early toward a broader critique of irrational extremism on any side. Claypool's interactions with fans have included calls for , with discussions in 2024 highlighting his ambivalence toward disruptive audience behavior, such as excessive or lack of , which he has addressed onstage to maintain mutual respect.

Legacy and Reception

Influence on Bassists and Genres

Les Claypool's mastery of slap bass techniques, characterized by percussive thumb slaps, pops, and , has demonstrably influenced bassists seeking to integrate elements into heavier rock and metal styles. Korn bassist Reginald "Fieldy" Arvizu has explicitly cited Claypool among his key influences, alongside figures like and , crediting this for shaping his own low-end-heavy, percussive approach in nu-metal. This emulation contributed to a broader revival of slap bass in metal-funk hybrids during the , where Claypool's Primus-era grooves—such as those on "" from (1991)—prioritized rhythmic complexity and tonal aggression over traditional fingerstyle subtlety. Claypool's prominence in alternative rock bass playing is empirically tracked through industry recognition, including his landslide victory in Bass Player magazine's 1992 Bassist of the Year poll, where he also dominated categories for best concert performance and recorded performance. This accolade coincided with Primus's chart success and touring peaks, correlating with heightened visibility for lead bass roles in alt-rock acts that fused prog, , and metal—evident in the era's proliferation of bass-forward bands emulating Primus's genre-blending eccentricity. While direct causal links to specific progeny bands remain anecdotal, Claypool's techniques informed instructional emulation via widespread transcription and resources dissecting Primus riffs, sustaining his impact on aspiring players. In recent years, Claypool's niche influence endures among younger experimental bassists, as seen in his 2025 collaboration with at the Bass Magazine Awards, where they jammed on custom gear, highlighting intergenerational transmission of slap innovation. Interviews from 2025, such as with , underscore how Claypool's boundary-pushing style continues to inspire acts blending funk-metal with modern improvisation, though confined to prog and avant-garde circles rather than mainstream revival.

Critical Assessments and Achievements

Primus, led by Claypool, received a Grammy nomination in 1996 for Best Hard Rock Performance with "Wynona's Big Brown Beaver" from the album Tales from the Punchbowl, highlighting their quirky fusion of funk metal and alternative rock. The band earned another nomination in 2017 for Best Surround Sound Album for the 5.1 edition of Primus & the Chocolate Factory, underscoring technical innovation in production. Claypool's video work with Primus also garnered MTV recognition, including heavy rotation and acclaim for surreal visuals in clips like "Tommy the Cat," which contributed to the band's cult status in the early 1990s. These nods reflect peer acknowledgment of Claypool's compositional eccentricity, though the band has not secured a win, pointing to a niche rather than dominant industry consensus. Album sales provide empirical measure of reach: Primus has sold over 5 million records worldwide as of 2008, with (1993) certified platinum by the RIAA for 1 million U.S. units and (1991) achieving similar commercial traction through persistent catalog sales. Tour data reveals a loyal but constrained ; for instance, in one recent cycle, Primus grossed approximately $7 million across 135,000 tickets, far below stadium-filling peers like , who routinely exceed $100 million per tour. This sustains a dedicated fanbase—evident in consistent mid-sized venue sellouts—but underscores limited crossover appeal, with grosses reflecting underground endurance over mass-market dominance. Critical reception praises Primus's consistency and Claypool's visionary songwriting, yet solo ventures often draw mixed verdicts for perceived repetitiveness and self-indulgence in the 2000s, such as (2003), where tracks were critiqued as uneven or overly whimsical compared to the band's tighter ensemble dynamic. Reviewers note Claypool's bass innovation drives acclaim, but some detect stylistic fatigue in extended jams and thematic redundancy across projects like the Fearless Flying Frog Brigade, lacking the punch of Primus's collaborative restraint. Regarding legacy metrics, Primus became eligible for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015 (25 years after debut commercial recording), yet remains uninducted amid debates over their influence versus sales peers like Tool or , who share alt-metal roots but broader metrics. This omission highlights evaluator preferences for quantifiable ubiquity over genre-pioneering idiosyncrasy.

References

  1. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0165633/bio/
  2. https://www.allmusic.com/artist/les-claypool-mn0000242545
  3. https://www.encyclopedia.com/arts/educational-magazines/claypool-les-1963
  4. https://www.grammy.com/news/les-claypool-interview-living-legends-videos-tour-frog-brigade-sean-lennon-pink-floyd
  5. https://www.lesclaypool.com/
  6. https://www.angelfire.com/az2/sirdanimal/interview.html
  7. https://mabumbe.com/people/les-claypool-age-net-worth-and-career-highlights/
  8. https://www.kqed.org/news/10376635/history-reveals-a-difficult-road-for-richmonds-middle-class
  9. https://bass.fandom.com/wiki/Les_Claypool
  10. https://www.musikalessons.com/blog/2017/10/best-bassists/
  11. https://americansongwriter.com/the-unconventional-path-of-les-claypool-from-algebra-class-to-iconic-bassist/
  12. https://www.reddit.com/r/Music/comments/5dv54t/les_claypool_the_awakening_funk_metal/
  13. https://www.talkbass.com/threads/les-claypools-level-of-musical-education.1160827/
  14. https://ultimateclassicrock.com/geddy-lee-tv-show/
  15. https://www.guitarworld.com/artists/bassists/les-claypool-on-why-he-picked-up-the-bass
  16. https://www.npr.org/transcripts/142545811
  17. https://thrashmetaliq.com/2019/04/02/blind-illusion-thrash-band-featuring-les-claypool-larry-lalonde-of-primus/
  18. https://theforgedlegions.music.blog/2020/12/13/interview-with-mark-biedermann-blind-illusion/
  19. https://www.metal-archives.com/reviews/Blind_Illusion/The_Sane_Asylum/1923/
  20. https://the-dowsers.com/the-dowser-posts/bay-area-thrash
  21. http://www.ram.org/music/primus/misc/family_tree.html
  22. https://primus47.tripod.com/primusthinksjohnisafag/id18.html
  23. https://www.theaquarian.com/2010/10/08/interview-with-les-claypool-of-primus-odd-man-out/
  24. https://consequence.net/2017/09/les-claypool-breaks-down-the-entire-primus-discography/9/
  25. http://www.ram.org/music/primus/articles/UR_sausage_interview.html
  26. https://www.metalunderground.com/news/details.cfm?newsid=134202
  27. https://genius.com/albums/Primus/Suck-on-this
  28. https://www.discogs.com/master/17894-Primus-Suck-On-This
  29. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/frizzle-fry-suck-on-this-75986/
  30. https://www.guitarworld.com/features/primus-sailing-the-seas-of-cheese
  31. https://www.vinylveritas.com/products/primus-sailing-the-seas-of-cheese
  32. https://bestsellingalbums.org/artist/10595
  33. https://audioaddictmag.wordpress.com/2014/10/29/primus-the-strangest-platinum-selling-band-ever/
  34. https://musicgoldmine.com/products/primus-pork-soda-riaa-gold-album-award
  35. https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/primus/1993/shoreline-amphitheatre-mountain-view-ca-33d0f4e5.html
  36. https://www.popmatters.com/primus-sailing-seas-cheese-atr
  37. https://www.discogs.com/release/1444570-Primus-Antipop
  38. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/primus?page=2&year=1999
  39. https://www.sfgate.com/style/article/Primus-pumped-by-its-Values-3062486.php
  40. https://liveforlivemusic.com/news/drummer-tim-herb-alexander-clarifies-reasons-for-leaving-primus/
  41. https://www.sfchronicle.com/entertainment/article/why-tim-alexander-quit-primus-19886462.php
  42. https://metalinjection.net/news/les-claypool-reflects-on-tim-herb-alexander-exiting-primus-the-massive-6000-drummer-audition-that-followed
  43. https://www.kerrang.com/primus-les-claypool-my-daughter-tells-me-im-weird-all-the-time
  44. https://consequence.net/2011/09/interview-les-claypool-of-primus/
  45. https://www.loudersound.com/features/primus-green-naugahyde
  46. https://www.furious.com/perfect/primus.html
  47. https://jambands.com/news/2011/06/06/primus-to-release-first-new-studio-album-in-over-a-decade/
  48. https://primusband.bandcamp.com/album/green-naugahyde
  49. https://www.antimusic.com/news/13/September/26Primus_Reunite_With_Tim_Herb_Alexander.shtml
  50. https://primusband.bandcamp.com/album/the-desaturating-seven
  51. https://atorecords.com/releases/primus-the-desaturating-seven/
  52. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/primus
  53. https://atorecords.com/releases/primus-conspiranoid/
  54. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/primus-return-stage-for-first-show-since-departure-drummer-tim-alexander-1235867531/
  55. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zZegxw2kXmI
  56. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDdHdKtD-uM
  57. https://www.discogs.com/master/52529-Sausage-Riddles-Are-Abound-Tonight
  58. https://www.jambase.com/article/sausage-pittsburgh-1994
  59. https://www.discogs.com/master/161775-Les-Claypool-And-The-Holy-Mackerel-Highball-With-The-Devil
  60. https://open.spotify.com/album/4kQPgViVcNU5AxEOSDg1nN
  61. https://trey.com/projects/oysterhead/
  62. https://liveforlivemusic.com/news/oysterhead-debut-new-orleans-2000/
  63. https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/3133/Colonel-Claypools-Bucket-Of-Bernie-Brains-The-Big-Eyeball-In-The-Sky/
  64. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwt3Mg0F8hM
  65. https://theclaypoollennondelirium.com/
  66. https://shop.atorecords.com/product/ATCD217/the-claypool-lennon-delirium-south-of-reality-cd
  67. https://consequence.net/2023/06/les-claypool-frog-brigade-expands-tour-dates-2023/
  68. https://liveforlivemusic.com/news/les-claypools-fearless-flying-frog-brigade-reunion-tour-pink-floyd-animals-2023/
  69. https://onstagemagazine.com/les-claypools-frog-brigade-announce-additional-the-hunt-for-green-october-tour-east-coast-performances-featuring-new-two-set-show-with-expanded-repertoire/
  70. https://www.setlist.fm/setlists/the-les-claypool-frog-brigade-7bd69e74.html
  71. https://jambands.com/news/2023/11/05/les-claypools-bastard-jazz-to-celebrate-new-years-eve-in-san-francisco/
  72. https://www.jambase.com/article/les-claypools-bastard-jazz-adam-deitch-new-years-eve-2023
  73. https://www.facebook.com/lesclaypool/posts/les-claypools-bastard-jazz-will-be-heading-to-japan-to-headline-the-9th-year-of-/1285002889660980/
  74. https://consequence.net/2023/10/les-claypool-adverse-yaw-the-prawn-song-box-set/
  75. https://jambands.com/news/2023/10/09/les-claypool-announces-five-album-box-set-adverse-yaw-the-prawn-song-years/
  76. https://open.spotify.com/artist/1oM1vgebNTCZmVYwC3YYl8
  77. https://www.jambase.com/festival/festival-de-frue-2025
  78. https://www.musicradar.com/news/les-claypool-i-always-squirm-when-people-say-slap-bass-its-thumpin-and-pluckin
  79. https://www.classiccat.net/iv/doublebass.info.php
  80. https://www.reddit.com/r/Bass/comments/1e1mur0/how_does_les_claypool_slap_so_fast/
  81. https://www.talkingbass.net/lacquer-head-les-claypool-slap-bass-breakdown-tutorial-tabs/
  82. https://onlinebasscourses.com/lessons/technique/les-claypool-primus-slap-funk/
  83. http://rebelmusicteacher.squarespace.com/blog/2018/7/2/asymmetrical-simple-meter-in-primuss-eleven
  84. https://www.ram.org/music/primus/misc/didyouknow.html
  85. https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2012/11/09/les-claypools-strange-frequencies/
  86. https://www.dallasobserver.com/uncategorized/les-claypool-on-being-too-good-for-metallica-also-climbing-mount-everest-in-a-speedo-7052923/
  87. https://www.songfacts.com/facts/primus/tommy-the-cat
  88. https://genius.com/Primus-tommy-the-cat-lyrics
  89. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DOovuQXkbS9/
  90. https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/general_music_news/just-bend-it-out-of-shape-les-claypool-says-his-voice-is-not-overly-pleasant-explains-how-to-sing-properly
  91. https://www.ethanhein.com/wp/2010/tommy-the-cat/
  92. https://www.songmeaningsandfacts.com/wynonas-big-brown-beaver-unpeeling-the-layers-of-satirical-ingenuity/
  93. https://sites.google.com/grantspass.k12.or.us/november-2022-issue/pop-culture/the-weird-and-wonderful-world-of-les-claypool
  94. https://mixdownmag.com.au/features/rig-rundown-les-claypool/
  95. https://www.guitarlobby.com/les-claypool-bass-guitars-and-gear/
  96. https://ctbasses.com/les-claypool-primus
  97. http://rockstarguitarsandrigs.blogspot.com/2008/04/episode-2-les-claypool-primus.html
  98. https://www.amazon.com/Beavis-Butt-Head-Experience-Various-Artists/dp/B000000P14
  99. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSQVKZZLjaI
  100. https://americansongwriter.com/how-les-claypool-and-primus-innocent-side-quest-created-one-of-the-most-iconic-tv-intros-of-all-time/
  101. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1947585/soundtrack/
  102. https://www.notreble.com/buzz/2025/09/11/les-claypool-tells-the-wild-story-behind-the-south-park-theme-song/
  103. https://www.reddit.com/r/Bass/comments/18zfcx7/any_movietvvideo_game_soundtracks_composed_by/
  104. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0165633/
  105. https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/south-of-the-pumphouse-les-claypool/1100407452
  106. https://archive.org/details/southofpumphouse00clay
  107. https://watch.plex.tv/person/les-claypool
  108. https://www.notreble.com/buzz/2009/12/02/les-claypool-dips-into-wine-business/
  109. https://www.sfgate.com/travel/article/Claypool-Cellars-primed-by-Primus-Les-Claypool-2739235.php
  110. https://www.purplepachyderm.com/who-we-are.php
  111. http://www.ram.org/music/primus/articles/les_bday_atn.html
  112. https://www.sonomamag.com/celebrity-wines-and-wineries-sonoma-napa/
  113. https://www.theflyfishjournal.com/2022/07/les-claypools-5-gallons-of-diesel/
  114. https://thinkns.com/les-claypool-bassist-and-fisherman/
  115. https://loudwire.com/primus-conspiranoia-song-conspiranoid-ep/
  116. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWDxDouv1Vo
  117. https://www.vaildaily.com/news/primus-frontman-les-claypool-on-climate-change-colorado-and-cygnus-x-1/
  118. https://www.reddit.com/r/Primus/comments/18622s1/primus_supports_republicans/
  119. https://www.reddit.com/r/Primus/comments/1ds4pn2/a_treatise_on_les_claypools_ambivalence_towards/
  120. https://boysfrombakersfield.tripod.com/fieldy.html
  121. https://instaofbass.com/les-claypool-bass-grooves-top-10-bass-lines-that-redefined-rock-and-funk/
  122. http://www.ram.org/music/primus/articles/bp1.html
  123. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zeN_u2q_zHc
  124. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vy3MhZLgucQ
  125. https://laughingsquid.com/rick-beato-les-claypool-interview/
  126. https://grammy.com/artists/primus/10698
  127. https://grammy.com/artists/les-claypool/1585
  128. https://top40weekly.com/primus/
  129. https://www.celebritynetworth.com/richest-celebrities/rock-stars/les-claypool-net-worth/
  130. https://www.reddit.com/r/Primus/comments/daziyu/help_me_settle_a_bet_how_many_records_has_primus/
  131. https://www.reddit.com/r/phish/comments/rg4y1i/tour_stats_phish_comes_in_5th_overall_with_45/
  132. http://club.kingsnake.com/index.php?/archives/73-CD-Review-Les-Claypool-Of-Whales-and-Woe.html
  133. https://pennyblackmusic.co.uk/Home/Details?id=16833
  134. https://www.notinhalloffame.com/music/rock-and-roll/661-296-primus
  135. https://futurerocklegends.com/Artist/Primus/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.