Primus
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The Three Bands of Claypool Gold

Primus

Primus is the San Francisco-based funk-metal trio that has defied categorization since their formation in the mid-1980s. Founded by bassist and vocalist Les Claypool, Primus blends funk, progressive rock, thrash, and experimental music into a sound so unique they were given their own genre tag in the original Winamp media player. The current lineup features Claypool, guitarist Larry “Ler” LaLonde (formerly of death metal pioneers Possessed), and new drummer John Hoffman.

Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade

The Frog Brigade is Claypool’s jam-oriented side project, featuring an extended lineup that allows for adventurous improvisation and deep cuts. The band has famously performed Pink Floyd’s Animals album in its entirety and explores the prog and jam band territories that Primus’s three-piece format can’t always accommodate.

The Claypool Lennon Delirium

The Claypool Lennon Delirium pairs Les Claypool with Sean Ono Lennon—son of John Lennon and Yoko Ono—for psychedelic, prog-leaning explorations. “Sean is a musical mutant after my own heart,” Claypool has said. “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.” Their albums include Monolith of Phobos (2016) and South of Reality (2019).

Essential Primus Songs

• “Jerry Was a Race Car Driver” – The breakthrough single from Sailing the Seas of Cheese, known for its intricate tapping bassline
• “Tommy the Cat” – Featuring spoken word by Tom Waits and one of the most complex basslines ever recorded
• “My Name Is Mud” – The dark, heavy lead single from Pork Soda
• “Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver” – MTV staple from Tales from the Punchbowl
• “Lacquer Head” – Driving funk-metal from Antipop
• “John the Fisherman” – Early fan favorite from Frizzle Fry
• “Too Many Puppies” – Anti-war anthem from the debut era
• “South Park Theme” – The iconic opening to the animated series since 1997
• “DMV” – Satirical take on bureaucracy from Pork Soda
• “Mr. Krinkle” – Upright bass showcase with surrealist music video
• “Little Lord Fentanyl” – 2025 single with Maynard James Keenan, first recording with John Hoffman

Primus Discography

• Suck on This (1989) – Live debut album, self-released
• Frizzle Fry (1990) – First studio album featuring “John the Fisherman”
• Sailing the Seas of Cheese (1991) – Major label breakthrough, platinum certified
• Pork Soda (1993) – Debuted at #7 on Billboard 200, platinum certified
• Tales from the Punchbowl (1995) – Gold certified, features “Wynona’s Big Brown Beaver”
• Brown Album (1997) – Self-titled album with heavier sound
• Antipop (1999) – Collaborations with Tom Morello, James Hetfield, Tom Waits
• Green Naugahyde (2011) – Return after 12-year hiatus
• Primus & the Chocolate Factory (2014) – Reimagining of Willy Wonka soundtrack
• The Desaturating Seven (2017) – Concept album based on children’s book The Rainbow Goblins
• Conspiranoid EP (2022) – Three-track EP featuring 11-minute title track

About Les Claypool

Leslie Edward Claypool (born September 29, 1963) is an American musician ranked among the greatest bassists of all time by Rolling Stone. His unique playing style mixes tapping, flamenco-like strumming, whammy bar bends, and slapping on fretted, fretless, and multi-stringed instruments. Beyond Primus, Claypool has founded numerous projects including supergroup Oysterhead (with Trey Anastasio and Stewart Copeland), Colonel Claypool’s Bucket of Bernie Brains, and Duo de Twang. He also runs Claypool Cellars winery in Sonoma County, California.

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Quick Facts: Primus & Claypool Gold

What is “Primus Sucks”? The iconic catchphrase began when fans would compliment the band and Claypool would reply “Nah, we suck.” It became a term of endearment—fans chant it at shows and the band sells “Primus Sucks” merchandise. “I think it’s the greatest thing,” Claypool has said. “Somebody can come right up to me and say, ‘You guys really suck.’ And I would just take it as a compliment.”

What genre is Primus? Primus defies easy categorization. They’ve been called funk metal, alternative metal, experimental rock, and “psychedelic polka” (Claypool’s own description). They’re the only band with their own dedicated genre tag in music software.

Who is Sean Lennon? Sean Ono Lennon is a musician, producer, and the son of John Lennon and Yoko Ono. He partners with Claypool in The Claypool Lennon Delirium and won a Grammy in 2025 for his design of the John Lennon Mind Games boxed reissue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Claypool Gold tour?

Claypool Gold is Les Claypool's Summer 2026 tour bringing together three of his bands—Primus, Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade, and The Claypool Lennon Delirium—for one epic evening. Each night, all three bands share the stage for a fluid show with wildly different setlists and surprises, running May 20 through July 4.

When does the Claypool Gold tour start?

The Claypool Gold tour begins May 20, 2026 at the Reno Events Center in Reno, Nevada. The tour wraps up with a July 4th celebration at Blue Note Summer Sessions in Napa, California.

What cities is the Claypool Gold tour visiting?

The 25+ date tour visits Reno, Bend, Seattle (Redmond), Montana, Salt Lake City, Kansas City, St. Louis, Detroit (Rochester), Cleveland, Chicago, Nashville area (Pelham, TN), Columbus, Portland (ME), Boston, Saratoga Springs, Asbury Park, Charlotte, Charleston, St. Augustine, Atlanta, Rogers (AR), Austin, Dallas (Irving), Dillon (CO), Phoenix, San Diego, Long Beach, and Napa.

Who is the new Primus drummer?

John Hoffman from Shreveport, Louisiana is Primus's new drummer. He won the band's "Interstellar Drum Derby" audition, beating out over 6,100 applicants worldwide. He replaced Tim "Herb" Alexander, who departed in October 2024 after losing his "passion for playing."

What is Primus's new song with Maynard James Keenan?

"Little Lord Fentanyl" is Primus's first studio recording with drummer John Hoffman, featuring guest vocals from Tool/A Perfect Circle/Puscifer frontman Maynard James Keenan. It's described as a "twisted fable steeped in groove and dark humor" and was released in May 2025.

Will Primus play their classic songs on tour?

Yes, expect Primus classics like "Jerry Was a Race Car Driver," "Tommy the Cat," "My Name Is Mud," and "Wynona's Big Brown Beaver" alongside newer material and songs from Frog Brigade and Claypool Lennon Delirium. The tour promises "wildly different setlists" each night.

How long is a Claypool Gold show?

With three bands sharing the stage in a "fluid" format, Claypool Gold shows are substantial evening experiences. Expect approximately 3+ hours of music as Primus, Frog Brigade, and Claypool Lennon Delirium cycle through material throughout the night.

What should I expect at a Primus concert?

Primus shows are known for their technical musicianship, surreal visuals, dark humor, and the iconic "Primus Sucks" chant from fans. Les Claypool's bass virtuosity is the centerpiece, accompanied by Larry LaLonde's dissonant guitar work and now John Hoffman's versatile drumming.

Is Primus appropriate for all ages?

Primus lyrics contain adult themes, dark humor, and occasional profanity. While not excessively explicit, parents should use discretion for younger attendees. The band's quirky, theatrical presentation appeals to fans of all ages who appreciate experimental music.

What is Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade?

The Frog Brigade is Claypool's jam-oriented side project featuring an extended lineup for improvisation and deep cuts. They've performed full album covers including Pink Floyd's Animals and explore prog and jam band territories beyond Primus's three-piece format.

What is The Claypool Lennon Delirium?

The Claypool Lennon Delirium is a psychedelic rock duo featuring Les Claypool and Sean Ono Lennon (son of John Lennon). They've released albums Monolith of Phobos (2016) and South of Reality (2019), and have a new 2026 single "WAP (What a Predicament)."

Did Primus do the South Park theme song?

Yes, Primus has performed the South Park theme song since the show's debut in 1997. Les Claypool also appears in the animated opening credits. The band performed at the South Park 25th Anniversary Concert at Red Rocks in 2022.

Are Primus tickets expensive?

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Can I get a refund if a show is canceled?

Yes, if a concert is canceled and not rescheduled, you are entitled to a full refund. For postponed shows, tickets typically remain valid for the new date. Our buyer protection covers you in case of cancellation.

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