The Claypool Lennon Delirium’s Meat Machines: A Trippy Look at Humanity

To my surprise not only was Les Claypool and Sean Ono Lennon in a band together, but they have put out a handful of records. I needed to check this unique pairing out and I’m glad I did. Before we get into that, let’s have a bit of context. For those who aren’t familiar with Claypool, he was a 90s bass icon with his punky art band Primus, who had a hit record with Sailing the Seas of Cheese. He and Flea really brought the bass front and centre. At this time Sean was just about to set out on his solo career. His most successful record Friendly Fire came out in 2006 and he would put out some records and singles until the two decided to do a side project in 2015. Fast forward to 2026 and they have a couple records out and a devoted following.

Musically, this song is a fusion of Claypool’s 90s master bass and some late 60’s/70s psychedelic rock. There’s this rousing bass mixed with a church like chorus, bent synth and like mod 70s UK pop. It has a wall of sound quality reminiscent of late Beatles stuff, which fits with Sean’s vibe. This may sound like too many conflicting parts all fighting for attention, but it blends together really well. On the surface, I thought that Claypool’s bass would stick out like a sore thumb…all that heavy slap and crunch…how would it fit? Well, he is able to tone it down while still displaying an immense level of bass skill and keeping the bass as a solo instrument…which is his calling card. Everything comes together in a luxurious and expansive musical trip that reflects the record cover’s black light vibe.

Lyrically, the song looks at humanity and questions whether we are more then mere “meat machines” or something more. This theme fits the trippy music, in that it’s like a deep conversation you have with someone over a few joints. Sean’s floating indie folk vocal soars above it all and is almost ethereal. Unfortunately for Sean, you can’t escape comparing his vocal to his celebrity father John…but he is talented in his own right and the vocal really shines through. Even though it’s difficult to divorce yourself from John Lennon while listening to the track, Sean’s vocal can stand on its own and fits the track well.

Often side projects are a chance for artists to experiment and really go for it. Some successful examples are Thom Yorke’s work with Flea, Temple of the Dog, City and Colour, Run the Jewels and Eagles of Death Metal. The Claypool and Lennon Delirium is another successful side project that gives Les a chance to break out of his 90s bass mould and Sean an opportunity to stretch out beyond the indie singer/songwriter genre.

Listen to Meat Machines