"Prick" is the sixth studio album by the Melvins, released in 1994 through Amphetamine Reptile Records under the name ƧИIV⅃ƎM. The album's unusual band name in mirror writing is attributed to the Melvins' existing contract with Atlantic Records at the time.
Prick is characterized by its experimental and eclectic approach, featuring a mix of field recordings, electronic effects, loops, jam sessions, and even a stereotypical drum solo transitioning into a heavy metal guitar solo. One track is introduced as "pure digital silence," which lasts for a minute. According to singer/guitarist Buzz Osborne, the album was created as "a total noise crap record" purely for its weirdness and was intended as "complete and utter nonsense, a total joke."
Originally, the band wanted to title the album Kurt Kobain, but changed it following Cobain's death to avoid any misconception that it was a tribute record. They hinted that Cobain, a friend and collaborator from their teenage years, was considered the titular "prick" due to his death forcing the title change.
