hey guys, RHCP's newest album has already been released! here's my review:
The Red Hot Chili Peppers have outdone themselves this time with
Stadium Arcadium, just released last May. This double-disc masterpiece offers more of the same funky, in-your-face music that have made them almost synonymous to funk rock over the years.
The album starts off with the band's first single, "Dani California," and clearly sets the mood that the Peppers are still the same wild and talented group, but they, as reflected by their music, have also matured. Listening to the other tracks such as "Hump de Bump" and "Animal Bar" made me feel as if they're ready to explode anytime with blistering song sections similar to those in
One Hot Minute and
BloodSugarSexMagik but they chose to play it steady throughout. Their current approach to songwriting may be on the safe side but has been very effective as evidenced in this album.
Musically, they are like a weathered but well-oiled tank: more reliable and more consistent with age. Anthony Kiedis is as good as ever; he still works those rhymes and mans the microphone with authority. Also, the vocal harmonies are well-executed and add color to the songs. John Frusciante remains as the group's primary riffmeister, delivering the best guitar work that he has ever done. His solos, even though minimalist at times, perfectly complement Kiedis' soaring vocals. Flea is still Flea, never ceasing to amaze with his increadible sense of groove while combining with ol' reliable Chad Smith to form the group's rhythmic backbone.
Not everyone may be blown away by
Stadium Arcadium because some might suggest that they are just rehashing past grooves and melodies, but spending time to appreciate the Peppers' latest work will might just make you think otherwise. Well done, guys.
My Rating: 9 stars out of 10
