Primus, Over the Electric Grapevine: Insight into Primus and the World of Les Claypool

Much of what this book is about is the various friendships and musical partnerships that eventually led to Primus. These are familiar pathways in the life of a musician and I found it entertaining to read about so many experiences that were similar to my own as a lifelong musician seeking the right combination of folks to play with. I recommend it for musicians. I particularly enjoyed the backstory to "Shake Hands with Beef" and it's always fun to read the words of Les Claypool in the conversations.

This book just arrived and I can't put it down. The definitive story of Primus told by the people who lived it. Essential reading for any fan of this amazing band."Over the Electric Grapevine" is written in the "oral history" format that is all the rage these days, and it is organized well so the story flows chronologically. Starting with Les in high school (with Kirk Hammett), the book takes us (almost) all the way to the present.Great stories about the making of the albums, the ideas behind some of the songs, and the hi-jinks of touring. Sprinkled in are the observations of some of their peers and tour-/festival-mates, most of them fawning in admiration at the talent and influence of Messrs. Claypool, LaLonde, and Herb/Brain.It includes a small section of pictures, a lot of which I had never seen before. This is an outstanding book that was put together with a lot of care.

I have been a Les Claypool fan since I heard pork soda for the first time. I have followed his career and attended concerts since then over the past few decades. If you are a Primus fan this is a must read. It is awesome reading what all these prominent musicians have to say all while telling the Primus story. It has explanations to album choices and what was happening behind the scenes at any given point in their timeline. Easy quick read with some awesome photos to go along with the stories. Primus Sucks!

Fantastic read

Pretty good read. That being said, I wish bands would wait to do books, box sets and the like until the band is done. The book pretty much ends with everyone gargling Jay Lane's bag, saying he is the best thing that ever happened to Primus. Well, then there is a little thing simply stating that Jay Lane has left and the mighty Tim Alexander has returned. This is great news because, as far as I'm concerned, it isn't Primus without Tim Alexander. With anyone else, I call it "Primus". Anyhoo, good read, good story so far, but the story isn't finished.

Got this as a gift for my adult daughter. She had attempted to find it herself to no avail. So was quite thrilled when I presented it to her. Told me weeks later she couldn't put it down.

the story of the most unique band, and artist, of the last 30 years. nobody is like les - or primus, for that matter - and you get the oral history of this man and this band that is not only an inspiration but a roadmap for the justification of practice and passion. it’s just the best validation of proving the value of what drives you as a real, worthwhile endeavor. you don’t have to do what everyone loves, but les proves you can be a good guy with good friends, a great family and a fulfilling life being successful for doing, and being really effing good at, what YOU love.

I have been a fan of Primus since I seen their cameo in Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey on my 11 birthday. Now at 34 years old I still love them all same, if not more. A very underrated band who's story is both interesting and entertaining, I also enjoyed finding out about their recording styles and how the band has evolved. I would even recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories of the music scene.

Gave it as a gift for my boyfriend. He loved it! Very interesting and he liked how other artists spoke of how the band influenced their style...

Primus é a melhor banda que existe e Les Claypool é meu ídolo

Great book if you want to know about the origins of Primus and Les Claypool. Written in a conversational approach with various musicians talking about the Bay Area in the 80's and onwards. Definitely pick this up if you are listening to the Primus Tracks Podcast to get more information about some of the things Frankie and Josh mention from the book. :).

What a cracking little book! The "writer" has wisely let the interviewees speak for themselves, and you get a real sense not only of the history of Primus's development as a band, but also that Claypool could just be the most cool and lovely bloke in rock. I mean, we're talking a Dave Grohl level of niceness.Heartwarming, and at times inspiring - it's the story of a man who would be having fun making music even if he wasn't making money out of it. Which makes a change.

Great work, a real must have for anyone who calls himself a fan. Starting with Les joining Highschool you can follow the development of the best band in the world. Very thrilling to read all these comments of different musicians surrounding Mr. Claypool on his trip through the sea of cheese.UNFKNBLVBL.