Red Hot Chili Peppers - By the Way
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Free Music Notes for By the Way
Free Music Review: By The Way, This Is Amazing
Hit: 5 Stars
The Red Hot Chili Peppers are unquestionably the greatest band that has ever lived. Evolving in a storybook-like fashion from having sold roughly 25,000 copies of their debut album, to the 13 million Californication accumulated. The band has experienced countless line-up change, heartbreaks, and tragic upheavals, giving the foursome a bleak future. 20 years ago, not a single person could have foretold this. By the Way came at a time when music begged for originality and uniqueness. It is lush, poignant, and immaculate; By the Way evokes fascination in all, as to what the band has transformed into.
It begins with "By the Way", one of the only numbers on the entire album which have preserved the once quintessential funk and rap-driven verses. It is vastly discrepant to those of the other recordings found on the album, and is, thus, misleading. The intricate song structure evolves from mellow, harmonious and humble beginnings to a brazen verse and impeccably bridges into a melodic chorus. "Universally Speaking" follows. It's instantly apparent that this song has very few things relative to that of it's predecessor. The song has a sort of Doo-whop feeling as it bridges expressively from the verse into a 60's-type chorus.
"This Is the Place" has to be one of the most beautiful tracks on the entire album. It begins with a modest base line (which is played throughout the entire song), and gives way to Chad's lustrous drum beat and Anthony's masterful lyrics; it contains some of the best song-writing I have ever seen, though one never knows what he is actually alluding to. John comes in with a seemingly invisible guitar segment; all until the chorus, when it brings through stunning life altering sounds. The most notable segment is the conclusion, when Kiedis sing unwaveringly, and John pounds furiously on his guitar. "Dosed" follows, which is elegant, wispy, and, for some reason, makes me feel as if I were in an Arctic blast. Four guitar lines run luxuriantly through the song.
"Don't Forget Me" has the most intricate and zealous guitar-playing I have ever heard. Like "This Is the Place", the exact same base-line is played perpetually until the conclusion. Anthony's haunting and ubiquitous voice resonates in your mind, as John picks masterfully at his guitar. Following the first and second choruses, astonishingly intricate solos are given by Frusciante. Each one is an ecstasy of euphoric delirium, executed with impeccable perfection. "The Zephyr Song" comes next, and seems as though it were lifted directly out of the 70's. It's psychedelic nature stands out wondrously.
"Can't Stop" is, without a doubt, my favorite song, ever. It starts fast paced, but somewhat quiet, until it reaches the climax. An amazing bridge to the verse is played by John. The verse is far better than the chorus, as Frusciante provides majestic backing vocals. Amazing song. "I Could Die for You", the shortest song on the album, is hard to describe. It's elegant and beautiful and gentle in it's nature. The track is quiet, yet perky and alive, as though driven by an enveloping, fervent, fanatical force. "Midnight" is another gem. The sounds which it engages have rarely been seen elsewhere. It is so unique, as each one of the songs are. Melodic and lush, bare and unsparing. "Throw Away Your Television" is the funkiest number on the album, though certain sections imply an innovative sense, and as though one were experiencing a whirlwind of nuance and jet speed illustriousness.
"Cabron" is an experimental track, which has a tang of Latin influences, hence the name, and is played exclusively on an acoustic guitar. It is another vastly dissimilar song which contradicts much of its colleagues. "Tear", a striking and lethargic (and long) song is an unexpected tribute to the Beach Boys. A magical trumpet solo is performed by Flea, which allows the song to prevent itself from becoming lost on the record. "On Mercury" is, if there had to be one, the weakest track on the entire album. The faux ska sound simply sparks too much turmoil between the songs it surrounds, and does not fit in with the grand message which By the Way is attempting to articulate.
It is succeeded by an outstanding track, however: "Minor Thing", which shows, blatantly, how much Kiedis has evolved as both a lyricist and a singer. His compelling and spellbinding voice gives way to the enchanting, enthralling and captivating guitar playing given by John. "Warm Tape" is possibly the most mysterious and inexplicable track the Chili Peppers have ever produced. The sound is difficult to describe, as it seems to squirm in a sensual manner, unlike anything ever created.
The final and longest song on By the Way, "Venice Queen", may be the most meaningful. It's mellow and windy intro gives one the sense of walking in a forest, while the bitter cold wind attacks you from all angles. It defines beauty, yet is as unforgiving as an astringent stone. Anthony comes in perfectly and begins singing in a depressed and crestfallen manner. Until, however, the song completely turns around and kicks itself into high gear. Near the halfway mark, it turns from a glum ballad to a driven acoustic melody, alluding to the death of Gloria Scott, a woman who aided Anthony in the fight against drugs. John provides majestic backing vocals, to make this song an amazing stand out.
So, if you took the time to read why By the Way is the best album ever recorded, you'll purchase it. Carefree.
Free Music Review: An Absolute Work Of Rock Art
Hit: 5 Stars
I'm not going to go on for pages and pages about how amazing the Red Hot Chili Peppers are, because I don't know enough about them to do so. If you would've asked me a month ago to buy a Chili Peppers album, I'd have laughed right in your face. They never appeal to me, but my mate lent me this to my extreme hesitation. I popped By The Way into my CD player and have not been able to stop listening to it. Who would've thought it? Pop extraordinare buffy-freak - fan on Britney, Shania and Mariah - writing a review for a RHCP album?! I am so in love with this record and just can't stop listening to it. By The Way is (so I've read) a return to more melodic, almost poppy, roots for RHCP. This is certainly apparent; almost every song on the album has a catchy vocal arrangement, which intrigues the listener like no other band can do.
By The Way begins with the first single from the album, "By The Way." A UK No.2 single in the summer of 2002, this superb slice of mid-tempo rock is the Red Hot Chili Peppers at their best. The soft choruses are followed by a superb break-out rock rap type-thingy! The only letdown is that this song has been overplayed on the radio. "Universally Speaking" is a diverse slice of laid-back rock/pop. Anthony Kiedis' heart-felt vocals are amazing, even more so when contrasted alongside the background harmonising. "This Is The Place" is an album highlight on By The Way. The lyrical content of the composition is breathtaking and memorable, especially the chorus ("Shocking, appalling") which is one of the most outstanding on the record - and that deep guitar pick in the background is very heavy. "Dosed" is another album highlight for me, because of that incredibly infectious and beautiful guitar picking. The message of the song is one of love - and the song always reminds me of Scar Tissue.
"Don't Forget Me" is a critical and public triumph. The way Kiedis' vocals extend beyond their own tradition, yet sound wonderfully original makes this moody and melancholy song so excellent. "The Zephyr Song" was the second single to be taken from By The Way late last year. The beat has an almost Latin feel to it, proving that the RHCP elastic band of music capability continues to stretch and stretch. "Can't Stop" is a phenomenal song, and a favourite on By The Way of many listeners. It's a return to tradition for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and they pull it off superbly. The funky rap-style vocals of Kiedis begin after a brilliant guitar intro and don't give up until the last second of the song. "I Could Die For You" and "Midnight" are my two least favourite songs from the album, yet they are still great. The former is a soft and lovely ballad - perfect to chill out to, while the latter is definitely a change of pace for the RHCP, compared to the rest of the record - and their career.
The album continues brilliantly with "Throw Away Your Television." The incredibly deep booming bassline is perfectly contrasted with Kiedis' serious and haunting vocals. There's just something about the song that intrigues me! "Cabron" is a unique yet welcome change from the traditional RHCP style. The song has an almost folk influence to it - yes, complete with a strangely addictive Caribbean twist! Everyone seems to go on about "Tear," and with good reason! This is simply one of the finest songs in the RHCP cannon. "On Mercury" is just perfection - an album highlight, the song has that infamous catchy vocal arrangement from the RHCP, and some strange yet descriptive lyrics. The song is very up-tempo and the verses have a very distinct style. The choruses are complete with superb harmonising to add to the anthemic feel of the song.
"Minor Thing" is another pure class song from By The Way. One of my favourites, the vocal arrangement is superb, especially on the "You've got your bit part, Mozart, hot dart acceleration, pop art, pistol chasin', cat fight intimidation," line. "Warm Tape" is a superb mid-tempo chill out track with a brilliant bassline, and the mood of the song is very mellow - representing their current musical style. The final song, "Venice Queen" is a song of two halves. I'm not sure what they are, but they change direction and consistency quite often. Not only is it an excellent song, but leaves you wondering what style the Red Hot Chili Peppers will take on their next offering...
OVERALL GRADE: 10/10
By The Way is one of the most amazing records I've ever heard - and is up there with Alanis' Jagged Little Pill and Madonna's Ray Of Light as one of my all-time favourite albums. One feels they have truly got their money's worth with By The Way - almost 70 minutes of pure class, vocal supremacy and downright inspiration. All these factors make By The Way the greatest rock record of the 21st Century...so far, but it'll be quite some time before anything else replaces it.
Free Music Review: FUNK IS A STATE OF MIND
Hit: 5 Stars
Where do I start? I've become emotionally attached to four CDs in my life - the chili peppers' "Blood Sugar Sex Majic" and "Californication" and the smashing pumpkins' "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Saddness". The other CD is this one, "By The Way". I've been a fan for a while, loving up songs like "Give It Away" and "Suck My Kiss", but always also diggin' songs like "Tearjerker" and "Soul To Squeeze". I loved how they could play the two styles of music and make em' sound equally amazing! Funk is a state of mind, and everything they play masterfully shines through. They are the only musicians on the planet that I think were destined to play together and make crazy wonderful nice music. 1)By The Way - 10/10 - Probably already heard this one, it's all good
2)Universally Speaking - 10/10 - After I heard this one the first time, I was moved. Anthony said it was about everything in life and you can hear it, I get instantly happy with every listen
3)This Is The Place - 10/10 - I love the way it builds up at the end....damn, it's just so good after you get used to it
4)Dosed - 10/10 - Nice ballad that also features some great textures and layers
5)Don't Forget Me - 10/10 - This one is a personal favorite. I love how the bassline is the same throughout, but you would never notice it. Features the mother of all build-ups
6)The Zephyr Song - 10/10 - The second single features a cool beat and sound in the beginning, followed by a nice chorus and somewhere towards the end, a great instrumental part is really great
7)Can't Stop - 10/10 - As funky as anything on 'Blood Sugar Sex Majic', this song is a gem. It's very catchy and the chorus is excellent. Just listen and tell me they aren't the coolest 40-year olds on the planet! They can rock better and harder than ANYBAND half their age.... damn this song rocks nice, hope it'll be a single
8)I Could Die For You - 10/10 - One of those songs that you'll never get tired of. SUCH an intense, sincere love song. It almost makes me fall in love with ANYONE! BY THE WAY - listen for the bassline around 2 minutes and a half - it's incredible! Better than sex
9)Midnight - 10/10 - Starts off great with strings, and gets better as it goes on. Great song
10)Throw Away Your Television - 9/10 - A strong song that starts off with an intense, funky drum and basslines. Thanks to Flea and Chad
11)Cabron - 10/10 - Unique as hell (name me one other band that could or would record this - such a great change of pace!) John really shines here - got better after a few listens for me
12)Tear - 10/10 - After much thought, this song is my favorite.... maybe even the best the Chili's have EVER recorded.... it's so sweet on the ears, it's basically an orgasm to my ears.... gotta love Flea's fantastic trumpet on it! get's better every time....
13)On Mercury - 9/10 - Another song that I wouldn't have expected.... really is neat
14)Minor Thing - 10/10 - Just about sums up this album, what a tune! Fast and catchy, and just about the best thing I've ever heard. Thank John for pushing for it to be included on the album! GREAT CHORUS would make a great video/single
15)Warm Tape - 10/10 - Like nothing I've ever heard, really sounds cool. Kind of relaxing
16)Venice Queen - 10/10 - WOW ! ! ! ! what an amazing sonic song! is a you just have to hear it.... especially love the first 3 minutes! All Chili albums have unique, great closers, and this is the best one to date....
To everyone who reviewed it in the first week they got it, man you are not doing anyone a favor by reviewing something you dont know too well. I've already had to buy another copy. You have to give it a fair shot you'll be happy. Anthony and the band spends too much time making this great stuff for you to listen to half of it once and give your opinions. Anyways, I hope people enjoy it as much as I have, and I eagerly await their tour of BY THE WAY and cant wait for Bsides and videos of the songs that I love.
All I can say is it is just one of those CDs....better buy it!!!!
Free Music Review: The spice has dulled a tad, but the peppers are still fresh
Hit: 5 Stars
As 1999's CALIFORNICATION proved, the Red Hot Chili Peppers' rehiring of guitarist John Frusciante was the best thing they could possibly have done after 1995's ONE HOT MINUTE was perhaps their first creative blunder since 1987's UPLIFT MOFO PARTY PLAN. It was the biggest seller since 1991's BLOOD SUGAR SEX MAGIK, and with an album that was not even the raunchy wonder that BSSM was. It made sense because the Peppers were now into their mid-30s, and it was time to act like grown-ups. For 2002's BY THE WAY, the maturation continues, but not at a sacrifice of the band's integrity.While ONE HOT MINUTE had been rather diverse in its way with experiments away from their signature funk-rock, it seemed more disjointed than anything else. BY THE WAY is also quite experimental with no song sounding exactly alike, but it sounds as if the Peppers have more of their hearts into the various genres they explore. So basically, it might be the successful departure that ONE HOT MINUTE tried & failed to be.
As the subject matter begins getting less sophomoric & more introspective, the Peppers' sound has taken on a more melodic & even ethereal nature. The first single "By The Way" was actually the biggest hit, peaking in the pop top 40 (if not the top 10 success of the previous album's "Scar Tissue"), but perhaps the band is all right with that at this point in their career. Nevertheless, it is a beautiful song that manages to caress the ears along with making the listener dance around. This is also one sign of the band's harmonies becoming more of a factor in their music. "Don't Forget Me", the second single "The Zephyr Song", "I Could Die For You" (maybe their best near-love song since "Breaking The Girl"), "Tear" (probably Anthony Kiedis' best, most wondrous vocal ever!) & the closing "Venice Queen" are other tunes that will surprise long-time Peppers fans & maybe even win over some new ones. "Tear", in particular, is literally jaw-dropping in its beauty, especially with the Beatlesque horn solo in the middle.
Even with the softer approach to some of the songs, BY THE WAY still has tunes where the Peppers can still kick it out. The third single "Can't Stop", the slight synth-pop of "Throw Away Your Television" & "Minor Thing" are signs the band can rock out when they want to. The big difference from their more famous songs is that the curses have been done away with for the most part, perhaps showing the Peppers can create a great, funky groove of a song without feeling the need to cuss every other word.
However, the real wonders to be heard on BY THE WAY are where the Peppers depart almost completely from their signature sounds into territory that's literally undescribable. These include the absolutely pretty soundscape of "Universally Speaking" (when I get my iPod, this song is going on it, for sure), the brooding "This Is The Place" (perhaps a better version of ONE HOT MINUTE's "Warped"), the fourth single "Dosed" (call it overly pop, but I love it), the string-driven "Midnight" & the psychedelic oddity that is "Warm Tape". Maybe all of these experiments don't work completely, but you gotta applaud the Peppers' efforts. The Latin sounds of "Cabron" & "On Mercury" are ones I'd like to hear the band explore more in their later work. They seem to have a knack for creating this kind of stuff.
It's been almost 20 years since the Red Hot Chili Peppers first introduced a small audience to their groundbreaking blend of rap, funk & metal. While the sound may have been intriguing, the actual lyrical material was wishy-washy at best (one song could be a complete beauty, the other a train wreck). Starting with CALIFORNICATION, the Peppers began to put lyrical substance higher up on their list & creating less frenetic music to go along with it. BY THE WAY is not only their most diverse & experimental album yet, but I'd even venture to say that it's the most accomplished one of their career. Maybe growing up was the best thing that could happen to the Red Hot Chili Peppers because instead of running out of gas as they reach the big 2-0, they're simply entering into another era of musical innovation.
Free Music Review: The Evolution of a Great Band
Hit: 5 Stars
This is the perfect example of an album that seperates the true fansd from those who like RHCP because a the style of music they produce. RHCP first came into the big spotlight with Blood Sugar Sex Magik, having listened to this album an uncountable number of times, i can safely say that is is one of the purest and most eneregetic albums i have ever heard, and the only drawback i see (aside from a few songs, Under The bridge notably) is that is albuy is lacking some real honesty and emoption. Energy yes, genuine feeling, no. That is why this album and BSSM are polar opposites at the end of the "good" spectrum. This album is oozing authenticity and a rare kind a perspicacity that is not found much these days. Not only are these albums sattilites for eachother in quality, they also are connected very well by the two albums that seperate them. One Hot Minute was a strage, off kilter album that I alot much of its lack of quality to the heroin the band, or at least what was left of it at the time (John Fruchonte, the guitarrist was replaced by Dave Navarro because of his entry into heroin rehab), but was still softer then BSSM, but on ikts way to the pivotal Californication. Wich was a CD that i feel was the bands major turning point where they didnt do so much of a 180 as it was a 90 degree turn in the derection of melancholy, slightly upbeat tunes. This band is constantly evolving and what is has becaome is a fabulus band that has proved that they are one of the if not the most versatile group out there. They have truly matured from the days of Freaky Styley and Mothers Milk, listening to they're oldie "Get Up and Jump" and i was stuck at how far they have come. By The Way, they title track will play very nicely with the musically immature craving their old funk band back. Universally Speaking boasts wonderful guitar licks and some great vocals, This Is The Place is one of my favoites of the album with some brilliant lyrics and kick ass bass playing, Dosed is this first of a series of beautiful, melancholy and slightly upbeat ballads that the Chili Peppers have perfected over the years. Don't Forget Me is a brooding and sad portrait of sex drugs and consequences with a hook that breaks your heart. The Zephyr Song proves wrong any who say the Chili Peppers have lost their optimism, a feel good song for all occasions. Can't Stop shows of the Zen like balence of raw energy and self control the guys have learned over the years with a juicy and rockin guitar line that a pleasure to hear and echoes some of their old work, though the rest of the song doesn't. I Could Die For You is just about a gorgeous a track as you could ever ask for, sad, emotional, authentic....damn these guys are good. A perfect followup is Midnight, a similar but slightly more bitter and cynical verson ("just a minute while i reinvent myself/make is up and then i take it off the shelf") of the previous song. Throw Away Your Television is a rockin good time, hard, energetic...but is comes out as the misfit of the album, almost Radioheadlike in its execution and message, still execellent. Cabron (NOT Carbon) is one of the most daring moves RHCP has made in a long time, massively latin flavored, rich, textured, and very danceable this seemingly random and beautiful thread is my favorite on the album though it may not be recieved so well by the funk lovers. Tear, introspective, knowing, very chill...excellent example of that the peppers have become. On Mercury, bopping, driving music, fun lyrics, pure enjoyment. Minor Thing, fresh air, more driving music, good rapping. Venice Queen, a two part song with a new, surreal sound in the first half and a more classic Peppers second half.The key to this album is to have a open mind, and ber willing to accept the fact that these guys have matures, listen and you will see that they have improved, and if you crave that ferocity forund in Righteous and the Wicked and Funky Monks you can always just pop in BSSM, this album is ment for a different layer and works just as effectively. Five stars, listen carefully, and dont miss a thing.