Description
Porno For Pyros – Porno For Pyros – Cassette
Porno for Pyros is the debut self-titled album by the American alternative rock band Porno for Pyros, released in 1993. Porno for Pyros was formed by Perry Farrell and Stephen Perkins, both of whom were formerly members of the influential alternative rock band Jane’s Addiction.
Perry Farrell’s first project since splitting up Jane’s Addiction, Porno for Pyros’ self-titled debut, was one of the most highly anticipated rock releases of 1993. Joining Farrell is ex-Jane’s drummer Stephen Perkins, guitarist Peter DiStefano, and bassist Martyn LeNoble.
The album Porno for Pyros features a blend of alternative rock, psychedelic, and funk influences. It showcases Perry Farrell’s distinctive vocals and songwriting style. The band’s music often had a more eclectic and experimental edge compared to Jane’s Addiction.
While the music of Porno for Pyros contains some similarities to Jane’s Addiction, it turned out to be a more ethereal and psychedelic affair. Most noticeably absent are the monstrous guitar riffs, DiStefano specializes more in textured guitar sounds, a la the Cure’s Robert Smith, etc. which puts more emphasis on Farrell’s vocals and Perkins’ drumming (who also adds exotic percussion to the proceedings).
Porno For Pyros compositions are far more succinct. Whereas Jane’s Addiction’s were known to wander into mood-enhanced improv, most tracks on Porno for Pyros are under the four-minute mark, while Farrell’s lyric-writing still alternates between train of thought and thought-provoking.
The slightly melancholic ballad ‘Pets’ was an MTV hit, as it lyrically touches upon the possibility of extraterrestrial life. A pair of tracks, ‘Cursed Female’ and ‘Cursed Male,’ are sequenced back to back to create a brief epic that explores the pros and cons of both genders. Also featured is the funky ‘Meija,’ the hyperactive ‘Bad Shit,’ the ballad ‘Black Girlfriend,’ and the title track, which deals with the 1992 Los Angeles/Rodney King riots.
Some of the tracks on the album include ‘Pets,’ ‘Cursed Female,’ and ‘Meija.’ The lyrics often touch on themes of spirituality, addiction, and personal reflection.
Porno for Pyros achieved a certain level of commercial success with their debut album, and it was appreciated by fans of alternative rock for its unique sound and Farrell’s continued musical exploration after Jane’s Addiction. The band’s self-titled album is considered a significant release in the alternative rock genre of the 1990s.
While those expecting an instant classic like Nothing’s Shocking and Ritual de lo Habitual were probably disappointed, Porno for Pyros remains an interesting musical detour for Farrell and co.
Warner Brothers Records
Track Listing
Sadness
Porno For Pyros
Meija
Cursed Female
Cursed Male
Pets
Bad Sh*t
Packin’ .25
Black Girlfriend
Blood Rag
Orgasm
