Primus: Les Claypool (vocals, bass); Larry "Ler" LaLonde (guitar); Tim "Herb" Alexander (drums).
Additional personnel: Tom Waits (vocals); Mike Bordin, Butt House.
Primus' major label debut (and third release overall), 1991's SAILING THE SEAS OF CHEESE had a long chart life, eventually being Primus' first release to go gold and break the band to a wider audience. Basssist/singer Les Claypool's bizarre sense of humor runs rampant through out--igniting such tracks as the stomping "Here Come the Bastards," the "Full Metal Jacket"-esque "Sgt. Baker," the explosive "Jerry Was A Race Car Driver," and the long and winding "Those Damned Blue Collar Tweekers." Also featured was a new version of "Tommy the Cat," featuring Tom Waits on vocals. Regrettably, SAILING THE SEAS OF CHEESE was Primus' last truly classic release.
What the critics say…
Spin (6/91, p.78) - Highly Recommended - "…waves of wackiness…awesome bass slapping…these tunes are definitely big fun…"
Q (5/95, p.130) - 4 Stars - Excellent - "…catches their tight, cartoon funk at its best. When it works….it's a little like the late Jane's Addiction, with fewer histrionics. The lyrical mix of shaggy dog stories and mock protest are from the silly but cool school…"
