One thing is certain about North California Rock band Primus, expect the unexpected. Formed back in 1984, this unique band has successfully captured a dedicated audience to their brand of funky, heavy Rock. Led by Les Claypool (lead vocals/bass), Larry “Ler” LaLonde (guitarist/backing vocals), and Tim “Herb” Alexander (drums), the band returns with their eighth studio album in 2014 titled Primus & the Chocolate Factory with the Fungi Ensemble. Marking their first studio album since 2011’s Green Naugahyde, their newest offering is also the first to feature Alexander on drums for the first time since 1999’s Antipop. Staying true to their original outlook toward creating, the latest album is a re-imagining of the 1971 soundtrack to the film Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. Not surprisingly twisted, this should not be looked upon as a fond stroll down memory lane, unless memory lane leads down a dark alley, in a bad neighborhood, where you stumble across criminal clowns dealing candy. No, this is a tribute to a childhood experience had by a young Claypool as he watched the 1971 movie version of the classic Roald Dahl children’s book. The idea for the album was born when Primus decided for their annual Bay Area New Years Eve show in 2013 to make it a Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory theme. Enlisting the help of percussionist Mike Dillon and cellist Sam Bass (The Fungi Ensemble) to cover the entire soundtrack, the project went so well that Claypool decided to take the whole thing, including the Fungi Ensemble, into the studio.
The record exposes the darker aspects of the book that are not represented in the 1971 film adaptation. This is evident with “Hello Wonkites,” a very fitting beginning to this homage. A haunting cello joined by looping strings, Marimba and a hint of “Pure Imagination” informs the listener of exactly what they are in for. Next on the menu is “Candy Man,” a delicious, percussive treat wrapped in madness. Nearly unrecognizable, this version describes a scarier real world “Candy man.” The track allows Alexander to shine with his big, open drum sound and syncopated rhythms while Dillon sprinkles the perfect amount of Marimba into the mix and a dash of signature Claypool vocals add the finishing touches. The piece “Cheer up Charlie” is a sweet song, originally sung to Charlie by his mother in the film. While the original song is quite beautifully sung, Claypool’s vocals are vastly different and beautifully creepy. Looking back to the original movie, it seems impossible to blame Charlie for being depressed. All that changes with “Golden Ticket,” a bouncy rendition of a song sung during a scene in the film which depicts a geriatric slumber party. Funky bass lines, strange guitar licks, and twisted cello work combine with percussive accents that swirl together into a concoction that is haunting and quite intriguing.
Moving along, “Pure Imagination” takes the wondrous ballad that defines the film and tilts it heavily toward the maniacal. Not the strongest of the remakes offered on the record, it still belongs in the mix. As songs “Oompa Loompa,” “Augustus,” “Violet,” “Veruca” and “TV” progress the story, they bring to light the evils of guzzling down sweets, chewing gum, and watching too much TV. These are the most recognizable songs on the album and certainly very fun as well. The famous “I Want it Now” is voiced by guitarist LaLonde, a first for Primus, and in the circus waltz like context of the song he pulls it off. “Farewell Wonkites” closes the record as it started, atmospheric with haunting cello and guitars, winding down the journey into the obscurity nicely.
Primus accomplishes originality with this project, even though it is a remake of an existing soundtrack. Claypool has successfully merged Primus with the Fungi Ensemble and created a wide open, fun record that seeks to twist one’s childhood memories and drag them into the present day. A visit to the Chocolate Factory as our world exists right now, this soundtrack fits the Chocolate Factories of today just fine. CrypticRock gives Primus & the Chocolate Factory with the Fungi Ensemble 3.5 stars out of 5 stars.
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