Red Hot Chili Peppers – 鈥業’m With You’
I became a huge fan of the Red Hot Chili Peppers after borrowing 1989’s “Mother’s Milk” from a friend. This zestfully high-powered album won me over with the
engaging guitar playing of John Frusciante. From that point on, I was not only fan of the punk-funk icons, but a Frusciante follower as well.
It’s been five years since the colossal release of the double-disc effort of “Stadium Arcadium,” as the band members enjoyed a beneficial hiatus pursing individual interests. With “Stadium Arcadium,” the band continued to grow and pursue various musical styles offering doses of pop, funk, rock and alternative into their spirited arrangements. On the 10th studio release, Frusciante has departed, giving way to new guitarist Josh Klinghoffer. Unfortunately, replacing guitarists shouldn’t be new to fans since the band has hosted eight guitarists during their 28-year history.
With Frusciante out of the mix, I was hesitant to embrace new material with the same enthusiasm as I had for past albums. Klinghoffer’s selection as the new guitarist flows comfortably, considering his past relationship with Frusciante. Klinghoffer played on three of Frusciante’s solo albums and also joined the Red Hot Chili Peppers on a portion of the band’s last tour. Klinghoffer’s intricate playing allows the band to travel even newer musical avenues under the orchestration of Flea’s vigorous bass playing, Chad Smith’s precise drumming and the soulful and passionate vocals of Anthony Kiedis.
The Red Hot Chili Peppers have sold more than 60 million albums and boast six Grammy Awards over their celebrated career. With the release of “I’m With You,” the accolades will continue to abundantly flow. Highlights include “Monarchy of Roses,” “Factory of Faith” and “The Adventures of Rain Dance Maggie.”
Frusciante may be gone, but I’m still with the Southern California band and will be for a long, long time.