Porno for Pyros

By the time Porno for Pyros issued a follow-up to their gold-certified, self-titled debut, 1996's Good God's Urge, bassist Martyn LeNoble had left the band (although he had already played bass on most of the album), replaced by ex-Minutemen bassist Mike Watt. The music was even more atmospheric than its predecessor, comprised almost entirely of laid-back compositions -- only a few tracks could be considered hard rock. Inspired by the beautiful Zuma Beach in California where the band's recording studio was located, the songs sound like the perfect soundtrack to a tranquil beachside setting. The free and easy feel of the first two tracks, "Porpoise Head" and "100 Ways," is comparable to Love and Rockets' more serene moments (L&R members Daniel Ash, David J, and Kevin Haskins actually guest on the former track), while the driving "Tahitian Moon" was an alternative radio hit. The beautiful acoustic ballad "Kimberly Austin" remains one of Perry Farrell's most personal lyrics, while Mike Watt's fluid basslines stand out on another highlight, the title track. Also of note were the guest spots by Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea and then-Pepper guitarist Dave Navarro on "Freeway," which marked the first time Navarro and Farrell played together since their less-then-amicable split from Jane's Addiction in 1991. After the tour in support of Good God's Urge, Porno for Pyros went the way of J.A. and broke up. ~ Greg Prato, Rovi