The Sessanta v2.0 tour transformed the Petersen Events Center into an oddly unique birthday celebration with Primus, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer masterfully intertwining their distinct sounds for an unforgettable musical experience. It was like a musical version of the famous mystery meat snack, Spam. If you know, you know.
For those who are unfamiliar, Sessanta is a unique touring concept initially conceived to commemorate Maynard James Keenan’s 60th birthday. Its defining feature is the simultaneous presence of three headlining bands on stage. While one band performs, the others remain on stage, often contributing or simply enjoying the set, creating a dynamic “birthday party jam session.” This format ensures that each tour stop offers a different experience and a blend of the fun and unconventional. Following the success of the inaugural tour, Sessanta v2.0 embarked across North America in celebration of Maynard’s 61st birthday.
A Perfect Circle kicked off the evening with “Counting Bodies Like Sheep to the Rhythm of the War Drums,” “Disillusioned” and “Blue.” This diverse set showcased the breadth of their musical styles and also provided the audience with a preview of the night’s sonic landscape.
Primus then took the stage, unleashing their signature sound with “Here Come the Bastards,” “Groundhog’s Day” and “Duchess and the Proverbial Mind Spread.” These tracks served as a showcase for Les Claypool’s extraordinary non-human mastery of the bass. For anyone who hasn’t witnessed Primus (or any of these bands) live, it’s an absolute must. Claypool’s seemingly effortless command of the bass, as he navigates complex and unique lines without even glancing at his hands, is truly incredible. While he may not have invented the instrument, he certainly redefines what it can do.
Puscifer concluded Act I with a mesmerizing performance of “Man Overboard,” “Horizons” and “Indigo Children.” The hauntingly beautiful vocal harmonies of Carina Round and Maynard provided a welcome shift in the atmosphere, offering a moment of clarity after Primus’s intense sonic delivery.
Act II commenced with a collaboration between Primus and Puscifer on their new track, “Little Lord Fentanyl.” Primus followed with three more songs before concluding with the iconic “Jeremy Was a Race Car Driver.” Claypool’s continued masterful playing left the audience in awe. Puscifer then took over with a four-song set, including “Bullet Train to Iowa” and their new(ish) track, “The Algorithm.” This new direction felt like a fusion of Nine Inch Nails’ industrial edge with Puscifer’s established sound. A Perfect Circle brought Act II to a close with a powerful quartet of songs: “The Contrarian,” “The Doomed,” “Weak and Powerless” and “The Outsider.” “The Doomed” featured a remarkable display of rhythmic complexity, with all three drummers performing distinct grooves that layered upon each other, adding another dimension to the already drum-intense track. The syncopation and precise timing were truly impressive.
Before the beginning of Act III, the sole intermission of the evening was upon us. A word of advice regarding merchandise: if you’re interested in buying exclusive items such as the Sessanta coffee or unique tour posters, make your purchases BEFORE the show begins. Having learned from experience, I can attest that these coveted items sell out quickly. I am writing this review coffee-less. At least I got a tour poster and shirt before the show started.
Act III was primarily dominated by Primus, a structure that became apparent upon reviewing the full setlist. Puscifer initiated the act, followed by a set from Primus, then A Perfect Circle and one last lone track by Primus. The transitions between bands were seamless, with each performing three songs, though not consecutively. This fluid interplay is a hallmark of the Sessanta tour, where the bands artfully weave their performances together.
The evening concluded with a performance of “Grand Canyon,” featuring all three bands on stage. This was the only point in the night where phone usage and recording were permitted. As someone who appreciates capturing live music, I understand the desire to film snippets of your favorite songs. While it was tempting to reach for my phone during my favorite tracks (yes, “Judith,” I’m looking at you), adhering to the no-recording policy for the majority of the show allowed for an immersive experience. It was a refreshing opportunity to disconnect and fully embrace the sonic landscape. I survived without checking my email and so can you!
There are still a few more stops for the Sessanta tour and you can find the remaining dates here. Will we see Sessanta v3.0? Only time will tell.
There’s a Spam-like infomercial at the beginning of the show. That’s what I meant by ‘If you know, you know’. I hate when people say that, because I never know, so now you know.
