People associate chili peppers with two very different things. Usually, someone thinks of a chili pepper as a red, hot, vegetable with a fiery taste; however, The Red Hot Chili Peppers (RHCP) are one of the most influential bands in the alternative rock genre. Previously considered to be a fiery and popular group, the recent release of their tenth studio album, I’m With You, flaws their prior achievements. Now, they are simply the cool glass of milk chugged down to mask the burn of something more interesting.
Originally known for their unique funky sound, the Red Hot Chili Peppers opted for increasingly mainstream harmonies on their new album. The first track, “Monarchy of Roses,” opens with the screeches of a train wreck, an accurate portrayal of the entire album. A steady rhythm of drums and bass develops, inviting listeners to tap to the beat; that is, until the squealing of the catchy chorus. Encouraged by the cadenced moments in the song, listeners may disregard the discomforting first track in hopes of finding a better one only to be disappointed once more.
Fortunately, one track on the album does not further tarnish the RHCP's reputation, "Brendan's Death Song." A slower more melancholic song, it briefly brings back happy memories of the "Under the Bridge" days. Acoustic guitar introduces the number, which is then led by Anthony Kiedis' voice, building up to a soft, yet lush sound. The drums guide the rhythm, with bass and electric guitar in the background. The end of the song fades out into nothing, hopefully not symbolically foreshadowing the legendary group’s demise from glory.
"Dance, Dance, Dance," the last track on the album, confirms that the RHCP's are trying to capture the attention of young new fans, not appeal to loyal ones. The title of the song also makes a statement about its sound. Unfortunately, the group does not succeed in creating an album that could fully be considered pop, and it would be shameful to consider it rock. With that, the clicks and taps of the chorus produce certain awkwardness, not complimenting the almost eerie lingering guitar notes played throughout.
Due to an absence of flow, taking the time to listen to the album in its entirety is pointless. However, the greatest pitfall comes from the verbal shortcomings. No strangers to popular songs which lack lyrical depth, the RHCP's combat this insufficiency with musical strength. A scarcity of both previously obvious strengths runs persistently through the meaningless dance songs of the 2011 album. Even those oblivious to the group’s level of success will take note of the change in genre. Still, the more familiar songs, "Look Around" and "Anne Wants a Baby," amount to only a pitiful echo of how the group sounded previously.
Some of the changes between I’m With You and previous, successful albums may be attributed to the addition of a new drummer Josh Klinghoffer. Compared to the other members, most pushing 50, he is a 31-year-old baby. Perhaps the RHCP's not fully trusting the new member explains why the bass and drums lead almost every track. While those unaware of the history of the band may find no issues with the new sound, disappointment will follow die-hard fans.
Pipeline Props: 2/5