Maynard James Keenan recently discussed his band Puscifer and their new album ‘Normal Isn’t,’ explaining why their music is not designed to please everyone, in an interview with Louder Sound.
The Tool frontman addressed the balance between comedy and tragedy in his work. He also discussed Puscifer’s approach to finding their specific audience rather than creating mainstream appeal.
“Everything has to be in balance. I still see the humour of fart jokes, but within the comedy, you have to write from your own perspective and feelings,” Keenan said. “I believe if I write from a conversational and cathartic point of view, it will work because it’s all about survival and maintaining, but it’s also about laughing. That’s the classic, even pre-Shakespearean balance of comedy and tragedy. You have to put them together, otherwise you lose your mind.”
Keenan further elaborated on Puscifer’s artistic direction and target audience.
“We don’t write Beyoncé songs, so you have to find your audience when it comes to really leaning into cool goth stuff or progressive rock or jazz, and all those things colliding,” he continued. “We just naturally do what we do… and it’s not going to feed the people that tend to dine at Walmart.”
The comments reflect Keenan’s philosophy on creating music that stays true to artistic vision rather than pursuing mass market appeal.
These statements come as Puscifer continues to promote their latest musical offering. They are also expanding their artistic universe through live performances and multimedia content.
Concert Addicts reported that ‘Normal Isn’t’ represents the band’s fifth studio album. The record serves as the follow-up to 2020’s ‘Existential Reckoning.’ The album builds on Puscifer’s signature mix of experimental rock, electronic elements, and narrative-driven songwriting that has defined their unique sound throughout their career.
The band has been actively supporting the new release through touring. 98 Online noted that Puscifer is currently on a U.S. tour that runs through mid-May. This extensive touring schedule demonstrates the band’s commitment to bringing their complex musical arrangements to live audiences across the country.
The band recently premiered a video for the track “A Public Stoning,” further expanding the visual component of their artistic expression. The release strategy reflects Puscifer’s continued evolution as both a musical and conceptual project.
Rough Trade confirmed that the band has also released a live version of the album for Record Store Day 2026. The release features a live rendition of the standout single “Self Evident.” This recording captures Puscifer at their most dynamic, offering fans a rare and visceral experience that showcases the band’s live performance capabilities.
