Les Claypool, frontman of Primus, just lately mirrored on his unsuccessful audition for Metallica following the tragic dying of bassist Cliff Burton in 1986. Claypool, who attended college with Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett, shared particulars of the expertise throughout a dialogue about his upcoming initiatives.
The Audition Mishap
Claypool auditioned for the thrash metallic giants unaware of their surging recognition on the time. He recounted taking part in a few songs earlier than suggesting a lighthearted jam on an Isley Brothers tune. ‘Hey, you guys wish to jam on some Isley Brothers?’ he proposed, however the room fell silent with no laughter.
Drummer Lars Ulrich shortly famous the mismatch, asking, ‘You’re probably not used to this sort of music, are you?’ Claypool admitted the amount overwhelmed him initially and acknowledged early on that he didn’t slot in. ‘It was actually apparent,’ he acknowledged.
Reflections and No Regrets
On the time, Claypool labored as a carpenter and would have joined any band providing pay. He considered it as a enjoyable alternative however now expresses reduction it didn’t pan out. ‘I’m extremely glad it didn’t occur,’ he added.
Claypool additionally addressed claims by Metallica’s James Hetfield that he was ‘too good’ for the lineup. ‘No, it wasn’t that – I simply didn’t slot in,’ Claypool clarified. Sporting a blonde Mohawk, dishevelled skater pants, and mismatched tennis sneakers amid the band’s lengthy hair and tight pants, he stood out starkly. He straight advised Hetfield, ‘You have been filled with it… I used to be a freak! That was why you didn’t need me!’ Hetfield laughed, agreeing the cultural conflict was evident.
New Music and Tour Dates
Claypool groups up with Sean Ono Lennon for the Claypool Lennon Delirium’s AI-themed idea album, The Nice Parrot-Ox and the Golden Egg of Empathy, set for launch on Could 1 through ATO Information.
Primus introduced a UK and European tour later this yr, that includes headline reveals at Manchester’s Academy, Glasgow’s Barrowland Ballroom, and London’s O2 Discussion board Kentish City on August 17, 18, and 19. Competition appearances are additionally included. Tickets can be found for UK dates and worldwide reveals.
This follows the band’s expression of shock over longtime drummer Tim Alexander’s departure in 2024. Primus chosen John Hoffman, a YouTube-famous drummer from Shreveport, Louisiana, as his substitute after auditions.
