Review: Return of the Dream Canteen
The Red Hot Chili Peppers released their 13th studio album “Return of the Dream Canteen” on Oct. 14. The new album’s funk revival actualizes the saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder.” From the evolution of their style from funk rock to dad rock, this new album brings back their original style with a twist.
Noteworthy influences include George Clinton, James Brown and Jimi Hendrix, all evident on songs like “Copperbelly,” “Peace and Love” and “La La La La La La La La,” from the new album. These songs have slower tempos and instrumental solos, specifically from bass guitarist Flea.
Several of RHCP’s rock influences include The Smiths, The Cure and Iggy and the Stooges. Songs like “Fake as Fu@k,” “Bella” and “Reach Out” showcase their rock influences. These influences are heard in the heavy guitar and drum solos, as well as the faster tempos.
In “Fake as Fu@k,” the initial calmness starkly contrasts with the immense emotion throughout the rest of the tune. After the intense beat drop from drummer Chad Smith, it becomes more violent. The song goes through multiple stages of discovering a truth: the burden being lifted from the weight of a lie. The verse, “Where misdirection waves its magic wand. Everybody sing that song,” represents how everyone is simultaneously deceived and deceiving.
“Tippa MyTongue” features a drum and bass-heavy introduction, gradually growing louder. The combination of Anthony Kiedis’ signature nasal vocals and the complementary bass are upbeat and smooth. Strong guitar and bass solos toward the middle create that classic blend of funk-rock that RHCPs are known for.
Their new album and concert performances stay true to their original style from the origin of the band in the ‘80s, so fans of their older tunes will appreciate it.
4/5
