Fungus Amongus
As Incubus themselves note about Epic's 2000 rerelease of 1996'sFungus Amongus: "The recording's are basically a snapshot of our band, circa 1993-1995. As even the most discriminating ear could deduce, [we were] still struggling to find our feet." It's a caveat not really necessary for Incubus fans, of which there are now many, thanks to their diverse, unique, and  thoughtful brand of funky, sometimes-acoustic rock, exemplified on 1999's impressiveMake Yourself. This early effort, written and recorded when band members were in their teens, smacks heavily ofPrimusandFaith No Morefanaticism, influences which, on later discs, are blended into an evolving signature sound. Songs such as "Speak Free," "Trouble in 421," and the aggressive, linear "The Answer" are decent, but not as heavy, well-written, or thoughtful as the material onMake Yourself. Ultimately,Fungus Amongusis a lightweight, casual, fun, and funky morsel for hardcore fans.--Katherine Turman