Porno for Pyros

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, and while the music of Porno for Pyros contains some similarities to Jane's, 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). Also, Porno's compositions are far more succinct. Whereas Jane'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 (clocking in together at barely over seven minutes) 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. 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. ~ Greg Prato