Fu Manchu’s 1996 release “In Search Of…”
Known for its retro-production style, bass-centric sounds, slower tempos and fuzzed-out sound, Stoner Rock came to prominence in the 1990s. When you hear the term “Stoner Rock,” bands like Kyuss, Acid King, and Monster Mangnet come to mind. But there’s one other classic group that can’t be left off the list: Fu Manchu.
Originally formed in 1985 as a Black Flag-influenced hardcore punk band, Fu Manchu released their first single, “Kept Between Trees” in 1990. Throughout the decade, they joined their peers in help giving rise to the style of heavy metal genre defined by elements of psychadelica, blues rock and metal.
Allmusic describes fans of Fu Manchu as a “fanatical army of loyal enthusiasts all drawn to the group’s ridiculously catchy unpretentious music, guitar-driven sound and carefree lyrics centered on “old muscle cars, choppers, vans, skateboarding and science fiction.” If that doesn’t sum up Stoner Rock enthusiasts, I don’t know what does…
My favorite Fu Manchu album is 1996’s In Search Of…, considered a pillar album of the Stoner Rock movement. Praised by fans and critics alike, In Search Of… stands apart from other Fu Manchu and Stoner Rock albums through its continual, hypnotic guitar riffs, percussion breakdowns, sing-along choruses and plenty of fuzz. A fundamental album for almost any rock collection, Fu Manchu demonstrates purposeful use of their technique to create an entire experience while listening to the album.
Currently the band is playing the landmark record in its entirety, from start to finish! Check out this video of Fu Manchu in Berlin for a taste of what’s to come:
Fu Manchu – Neptunes Convoy live in Berlin
Now you’ve got your chance to catch this special tour! Fu Manchu will be performing In Search Of… at the Hawthorne Theatre in Portland on Friday, January 13th and El Corazon in Seattle on Saturday, January 14th. Theses shows are definitely highlighting the first part of my 2012 calendar, and are not to be missed!
