I need help. We have been staring at this clue since eight o'clock this morning and it has defeated me. Please help. Okay, here we go

Tom Waits's preference was to resort to blotto- "oh no" to iffy brain removal (Neanderthal aftermath)
2,6,4,1,6,2,5,2,2,4,1,7,8


Due to the length of the clue it would be well complicated to explain which letters I've got so you are sleuthing blind I'm afraid. Hope at least one of you bods can help cos this is melting my tiny little mind.