While he remains known for his tenure as Faith No More’s singer, Mike Patton has an astonishing resumé rivaled only by the likes of Josh Freese. Here, we compile a playlist of songs charting his course to joining every musical act on the planet.
Faith No More “Epic” (1989)
This huge hit for Faith No More confirmed the one exception to Patton’s mission – not joining the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Patton’s style in the music video screams ‘low-budget Anthony Kiedis’ – only his talents that would come to full fruition later in his career suggest anything but.
Sepultura “Lookaway” (1996)
Featuring Korn’s Jonathan Davis and Limp Bizkit’s DJ Lethal in addition to Patton, this track boasts Patton’s foray into nu-metal, a genre which he says “makes [his] stomach turn.” Still a killer track, with an equally killer band behind him.
Peeping Tom “Sucker” (2006)
While this pop venture features numerous artists (Massive Attack and beatbox extraordinaire Rahzel, among others), “Sucker” is notable in its R-rated collaboration with Norah Jones. Yes, here’s M.P. playing second fiddle to a musical act your own grandma would approve.
Björk “Where Is the Line” (2004)
A standout track from the Icelandic alternative goddess’ vocal-based album Medúlla, we see Patton hamming it up on a bassy, rhythmic contribution. Check the strange remix from Patton’s masturbatory side-endeavor, Fantômas, as well.
Tomahawk “Capt. Midnight” (2003)
An excellent cut from this group, which features members of Melvins, Helmet, and, of course, the Jesus Lizard in the form of guitarist Duane Denison. It’s clear that Patton can go toe-to-toe in terms of insanity with Jesus Lizard spectacle David Yow – only in terms of sheer power, rather than ramblings that sound like an amped-up Tom Waits after a few too many drinks.
Mondo Cane “Che Notte!” (2010)
With an orchestral backing band featuring a member tally in the dozens, who knows how many branches of the “six degrees of Patton” tree grew with this project. “Che Notte!” features, among other embellishments, a pistol being fired off. While it’s not an original piece, it remains essential listening.
Mr. Bungle “Sudden Death” (1985/2020)
Yes, it’s true that Mr. Bungle’s first three LPs get the spotlight. That said, “Sudden Death” – a song that actually predates those aforementioned three records – sees Patton teaming up with not only regular cohort Dave Lombardo (ex-Slayer), but also Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian. Yep – it’s Patton rising to the status of ‘80s thrash icon.
General Patton vs. The X-Ecutioners “Get Up, Punk! 0200 Hours” (2005)
The most overtly hip-hop entry into Patton’s eclectic discography sees the man flipping all sorts of traditional rap and scratch tropes on their heads, blending cinematic samples with the work of the semi-titular Brooklyn ensemble. This track could have fit into the previously-discussed Peeping Tom record, proving that the mainstream is never truly mainstream in the hands of this musical chameleon.
Dillinger Escape Plan “When Good Dogs Do Bad Things” (2002)
We would be remiss not to recall the time when Patton joined this legendary math-metal outfit. This tune might be the man at his most psychotic – a ringing endorsement if ever there was one.
The Moonraker Shows Patton Did With Buckethead (1998-2000)
We felt this was necessary to include solely based on the fact that Buckethead is one of the few musicians that has a discography as expansive as Mr. Patton. When the two joined forces for these low-key performances, it proved that both of them still have plenty to check off of their…forgive us…bucket lists.