Maynard James Keenan has revealed his personal playlist of 80 tracks that influenced the creation of Puscifer's upcoming album, Normal Isn't, set for release on February 6. The list highlights a strong affinity for 1980s post-punk alongside other alternative genres. This disclosure offers insight into the band's creative process amid their tour announcement.
Puscifer, the project led by Maynard James Keenan, is preparing to release its fifth studio album, Normal Isn't, on February 6. On December 2, Keenan shared his listening map from the album's writing and recording sessions, featuring an expansive 80-song playlist. This contrasts with the more concise selections from bandmates Carina Round and Mat Mitchell, emphasizing Keenan's broad exploration of alternative music.
The playlist draws heavily from 1980s post-punk, with tracks from artists such as Bauhaus, The Cure, Siouxsie & The Banshees, and The Smiths. It also includes industrial influences like Nine Inch Nails, synth-pop from Depeche Mode and Tears For Fears, and ethereal elements from Dead Can Dance and Cocteau Twins. Notable songs include Joy Division's "Love Will Tear Us Apart," New Order's "Blue Monday," and Killing Joke's "Eighties."
The album was developed across Arizona, Los Angeles, and during last year's Sessanta tour, incorporating a rawer, more aggressive sound. Guitarist Mat Mitchell explained: "From the outset, we had discussed an element of rawness and edge, which guitar brings. We got rid of the guard rails and made the music more aggressive."
Keenan reflected on the album's themes: "Normal Isn't reflects this time we are living in. As storytellers and artists, our job is to observe, interpret, and report. We take in our environment and share what we see, and what we see around us does not appear normal. Not by a long shot."
Contributors include Greg Edwards on bass, Gunnar Olsen and Sarah Jones on drums, with guests Tony Levin on bass for "Normal Isn't" and "Seven One," Danny Carey on drums for "Seven One," and Mr. Ian Ross narrating "Seven One."
Puscifer has announced a North American tour supporting the album, starting March 20 at The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas and concluding May 14 at The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. Stops include Phoenix, Austin, New York’s Terminal 5, and Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. Pre-orders are available now.
