I can understand people might think the Bongo and Big Al are 'radical', but then again, I dont think boutique basses with expensive exotic wood tops are very nice to look at. I can see why they would be great at what they do, but the whole aesethics just scream 'boring' to me.
Apaprently, and Ive no idea how true this is, but the Bongo has been a massive success. I tried one unplugged, and yes the shape is odd, but the quality at the price bracket was phenomenal.