Chili Peppers still hot in Coachella desert

By Mike Ruby

The Red Hot Chili Peppers returned from their Australian tour last week to play the second night of the three-day Coachella Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California. Although billed as a headliner, they were scheduled to play on the main stage before European techno phenomenon, Tiesto. This was unfortunate because they were only allowed a set of an hour and a quarter, which seemed like five minutes.

But however short or long they play for, the Chili Peppers can always be counted on to treat every show as if it’s their last. This show was no exception. They acted as if they were having the times of their lives, which in turn carried over into the crowd.

The popping and thumping of Flea’s bass and the beautiful range of tones resonating from John Frusciante’s guitar brought a wave of energy over the audience. Flea, John, and drummer Chad Smith started the show with one of their classic, seemingly improvised jams, transitioning into “Can’t Stop,” for which vocalist Anthony Kiedis made his grand entrance.

They went on to play their hits “Dani California” and “Otherside,” but neglected to play several others--for example, “Around the World” and “Californication.” Other, more obscure songs proved to be as great, if not better than, the chart-toppers. Some of the most memorable songs in the set had never even been played on the radio, including “Get on Top,” “This Velvet Glove” and “Don’t Forget Me,” in which Frusciante played the most powerful guitar solo of the evening.

As excellent as their new music is, I was mildly disappointed that no pre-90s songs were played, with the exception of “Higher Ground.”

Having been a band for over two decades with most of the band well into in their 40s, the Chili Peppers have provoked a common inquiry: Have they still got it? There were a couple noticeable flubs during the show, and Kiedis started a few songs off in the wrong key. However, it is safe to say that, at this point in time, none of those things matter in the least. Even though they’ve entered middle age, all four members still have the vigor and enthusiasm they’ve always had. It’s obvious just by watching a few minutes of these talented individuals play that they love what they do.

There’s no doubt that the Red Hot Chili Peppers have evolved. Their music is no longer as funky and psychotic, but now is more melodic and spiritual. Sure, it would be nice to hear a little more of the old stuff. It is, after all, what originally made the band so famous. But there’s only so much that can be fit into one short set. Plus, their new songs are enchanting in their own way and from the looks of it, the Chili Peppers are going to keep at it for many years to come.