Porno for Pyros - Porno for Pyros (CD)

All Music Guide

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 was ex-J.A. drummer Stephen Perkins, guitarist Peter DiStefano, and bassist Martyn Le Noble, and while the music of Porno For Pyros contained some similarities to J.A., it turned out to be a more ethereal and psychedelic affair. Most noticeably absent were the monstrous guitar riffs -- DiStefano specialized more in textured guitar sounds (a la The Cure's Robert Smith, etc.), which put more emphasis on Farrell's vocals and Perkins' drumming (who also added exotic percussion to the proceedings). Also, P.F.P.'s compositions were far more succinct, whereas J.A. were known to wander into mood-enhanced improv, most tracks on Porno For Pyros were under the 4-minute mark, while Farrell's lyric writing still alternated between train of thought and thought-provoking. The slightly melancholic ballad, "Pets," was an MTV... hit, as it lyrically touched upon the possibility of extraterrestrial life. A pair of tracks, "Cursed Female" and "Cursed Male," were sequenced back to back to create a brief epic (clocking in together at barely over 7 minutes), which explored the pros and cons of both genders. Also featured was the funky "Meija," the hyperactive "Bad Shit," the ballad "Black Girlfriend," and the title track, which dealt 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, All Music Guide Read more Less