Mr. Bungle - Mr. Bungle

Lost in a carnival of doom!

Mr. Bungle must laugh at new-school bands helplessly trying to fuse a mere couple of styles, like rap and metal, when they themselves - 10+ years ago - effortlessly jumped between just about any rock genre you can think of.

Their self-titled debut I would describe as a circus-themed funk-metal record... or something like that. And it is irresistibly groovy, creepy and entertaining throughout the whole thing. Within a single song on the record, don't be surprised to find elements of about a dozen genres, and don't be surprised if you find yourself laughing maniacally and banging your head relentlessly back and forth, wondering how the hell something so weird and extreme can be so utterly delightful. The explanation may be that however indigestible this may seem to be, it's still surprisingly memorable. Mostly because of Mike Pattons superb, over-the-top (in a good way) vocal performance. More than on anything else I've heard him on, 'Mr. Bungle' showcases his mad skills and equally mad creativity as a singer. He can growl, he can scream, he can croon, he can... rant-rap?.. or whatever it is he does on "Squeeze Me Macaroni".
And he manages to make it all sound so intriguing that you'll keep listening and keep coming back to this record, awe-inspired. Not to bring ANY disrespect to the band, Patton is merely the force that fascinates you at first sight. Trey Spruances extreme talent for creating crushingly heavy guitar-licks as well as funky ska-like passages, Trevor Dunn's almost Claypool-ish groove and Danny Heifetz's competent, inspired, skillful though never spotlight-stealing drumming, and the two-man (I think) horn-section, is what lays the groundwork for Pattons talent to reach its full potential here, and is truly one of the best, most groundbreaking and fun instrumental performances I've ever heard, from any band!.

This is, without a doubt, one of the best experimental, genre-bending records I've ever heard, maybe only surpassed by some of the very best Zappa-stuff - and if you're even remotely into that stuff, don't sleep on this gem! September 8, 2008

excellent music

This album is by far one of the most original pieces of music I have ever heard. These guys go above and beyond in creativity. Best way to describe it in a certain form of genre is ska-metal-freak show schizo clown music.

The best way to listen to this album is from start to finish. Put it in not when you're in the mood for something soothing and relaxing, but when you're in the mood for something equally as crazy as it is technical as it is funny as it is good music. They don't go overboard with the technical aspect of the music, but it's quite apparent that it's there, it's just done at the exact right dose. However, many might say that it does go a little overboard on madness! Some of it just sounds plain deranged! But, I love it! Maybe you will too!

July 28, 2008

Classic

This album is not repeatable. You might not want to listen to it as often as some other classics, because it takes some work. But if you put it on every once in a while, when the time is right, I think you'll find it a great example of skillfully stretching between genres while holding on a theme. The skill level is unquestionable, and the legitimacy that the music confers on heavy metal techniques is very rewarding. Like other classics, I think I'll keep getting new things out of it for a long time to come. How can music be so threatening when there is so much self awareness in it? Doesn't this mean there is someone there who is guiding you through the danger, who actually wants you to benefit? July 26, 2008

Amazing stuff

An obvious tell from scanning the reviews of Mr. Bungle recordings is that you never see so so reviews. People really love it or hate it vehemently. This is generally a good sign with music. This type of music is going to offend the sensibilities of a lot of people. However, to those of us that give it a chance, this is a brilliant recording. Listen to the recording a few times and it will resonate into your being, then get Disco Volante, and California to continue the trip. For some people, Mr. Bungle will open their eyes, for others, it will feel like their ear drums just got pierced. As for me, I only regret they did not make more recordings. July 21, 2008

Wrap This Around Your Mind

What can I say about this album that hasn't already been said? Before I heard this album I had no idea music could be this out there and still be so awesome.

For example, "Carousel", carnival music that rocks hard..."Stubb a Dub" has to be one of the weirdest songs ever written (about a dead dog), and it's hilarious ("Thanks MOM!)

If you don't have this album you need it to expand your idea of how far music can be taken. March 28, 2008

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