The Grand Pecking Order by Oysterhead

The Grand Pecking Order

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The Grand Pecking Order

Reader Reviews
I wasn't sure what to expect when I first heard of plans for the Oysterhead album. I think people make the mistake of imagining that it will somehow magically be a combination of Phish's jamming, Primus' weirdness and the Police's catchy anthems. Part of this is true, but mostly its not. Approach this album like you would any other new band, because that's what it is - a new band. If you go in expecting The Police, Phish or Primus, you will be disappointed. There are a few songs that do sound distinctly like Primus ("Shadow of a Man," "Army's on Ecstasy," and "The Grand Pecking Order" in particular.) Even then, they are still great songs. "Radon Balloon" definately could have been on "The Story of the Ghost" or "Farmhouse." Once again, that doesn't deter from the fact that its a great little ditty. "Birthday Boys" is definately a Trey Anastasio tune, but with a little tweaking. My favorite songs though, are the ones that have a flavor that is specifically Oysterhead. "Rubberneck Lions" is the best example of this (and the best tune on the record.) It utilizes all of the group's strengths: two unique and totally different lead singers, amazing instrumental prowess, and driving jazzy-rock rhythms. Everybody in this group has a great sense of rhythm and melody, which makes for some cool tunes. "Wield the Spade" utilizes the brilliant weirdness of these three individuals. The best way I could describe this song would be "audio in liquid form." It feels like floating on gently rocking water. The lyrics on this record are weird. That's not really surprising given Trey Anastasio's and Les Claypool's past. The interesting thing though, is that they don't really come off like lyrics to Phish or Primus songs (with the exception of a few tunes.) "Shadow of a Man" deals with suprisingly serious subject matter for these clowns. Even stranger is the fact that perhaps the weirdest lyrics of all were penned by Stewart Copeland. While this CD is excellent, I think one of the most exciting things about it, is that its apparent that future albums (if we're lucky enough to get any) have amazing potential. One thing that's so wonderful, is that Oysterhead seems so liberating for all three guys. If any of their former bands had put this record out, their fans would probably not have been pleased. This is allowing them to tread new ground. That's pretty cool they've forged a mostly original sound considering they had only played one live show before this record came out. This disc is definately recommended, and I look forward to more from them in the future. Comment | Permalink | (Report this)

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