Maynard James Keenan Opens Up About Puscifer’s New Album “Normal Isn’t”
A Candid Conversation
In a recent interview on “Kyle Meredith With…”, Maynard James Keenan, the frontman of Puscifer, shared his thoughts on contemporary politics, extremism, and the creative mindset behind the band’s latest album, Normal Isn’t. Known for his straightforward and often provocative commentary, Keenan did not shy away from discussing the pressing issues of our time.
Reflecting the Times
Unlike previous projects that often leaned into absurdist satire and humor, Keenan emphasized that Normal Isn’t is a reflection of the current societal climate. Upon the album’s announcement last October, he clarified its purpose: “Normal Isn’t reflects this time we are living in… what we see around us does not appear normal. Not by a long shot.”
Balancing Humor and Seriousness
While the album addresses serious themes, it is not a straightforward political manifesto. Keenan maintains a campy persona during this cycle, weaving humor and irony into the darker topics explored in the music. This blend allows for a nuanced approach to the themes at hand.
Condemning Extremism
When the discussion turned to tribalism and ideological absolutism, Keenan’s stance was clear and unequivocal. He expressed disdain for all forms of fundamentalist extremism: “I’m always going to be on the side of fuck fundamentalist extremists in any way. Left, right, center—I don’t care… fundamentalist extremists can go fucking suck a bag of dicks. And you can quote me on that.”
Puscifer’s Identity and Marginalization
In the interview, Keenan also tackled the perception that Puscifer is the “lesser” project compared to Tool or A Perfect Circle. He reflected on how Puscifer’s complex mythology and theatrical elements have sometimes alienated broader audiences. Despite this, Keenan views the band’s outsider status as an asset.
Embracing the Underdog
Discussing the track “Impetuous,” the final single from Normal Isn’t, he noted, “Puscifer‘s definitely been marginalized and relegated to the third side project category… I’ve always been on the side of the underdog. The marginalized underdog is always going to get my vote.”
Valuing Individuality
Keenan encourages listeners to embrace their differences, stating, “It’s okay to not think like everybody else… If you feel like an island, then lean into it. Don’t think of it as a flaw.”
Conclusion
Maynard James Keenan’s insights during the interview reveal a multifaceted perspective on art, politics, and individuality. Normal Isn’t stands as a testament to Puscifer’s evolution, capturing the complexities of contemporary life while encouraging listeners to embrace their unique identities.
FAQs
What is the main theme of Puscifer’s album “Normal Isn’t”?
The main theme revolves around the current societal climate, addressing issues of normalcy, extremism, and individuality.
How does Maynard James Keenan approach humor in the new album?
Keenan blends humor and irony with darker themes, creating a nuanced exploration of serious topics without becoming a blunt political manifesto.
What is Keenan’s view on fundamentalist extremism?
Keenan explicitly condemns all forms of fundamentalist extremism, emphasizing a need for tolerance and open-mindedness across the political spectrum.
How does Keenan perceive Puscifer’s standing compared to his other projects?
Keenan acknowledges Puscifer’s marginalized status but views it as a strength, aligning himself with the underdog and encouraging listeners to embrace their differences.
