Louder Than Life Festival Lineup Announced

Posted on March 12, 2022 by philspicks

The Louder Than Life Festival will return to Louisville, KY this year with an expansive lineup of acts.

The festival, scheduled to take place Sept. 22-25 at the Highland Festival Grounds at KY Expo Center in Louisville, KY, will be headlined by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nine Inch Nails, Slipknot, and KISS. The four-day festival will also feature performances from bands, such as Bloodywood, Anti-Flag, and Superbloom. The KY Expo Center is located at 937 Phillips Ln. in Louisville, KY.

The festival’s full lineup is noted below. Tickets are available here. Weekend general admission passes start at $249.50 plus fees. Weekend VIP passes start at $629.50 plus fees. A limited number of Weekend Top Shelf VIP passes is still available for $1,329.50 plus fees.

General admission single day passes start at $99.50 plus fees. Single day VIP passes start at $295.50 plus fees. Layaway options are available through March 31 for $10, with payments made through July.

A trailer for the forthcoming annual festival is streaming.

The current Louder Than Life lineup is as follows (subject to change):

Thursday, September 22: Nine Inch Nails, Bring Me The Horizon, Evanescence, Halestorm, Tenacious D, Yungblud, Highly Suspect, Ministry, Nothing More, Baroness, Spiritbox, Apocalyptica, Dorothy, Don Broco, New Years Day, Plush, Lilith Czar, Maggie Lindemann, Taipei Houston, The Dead Deads, Mothica, Superbloom, Eva Under Fire, Oxymorrons

Friday, September 23: Slipknot, Shinedown, Lamb Of God, Mastodon, In This Moment, Meshuggah, Clutch, Jinjer, GWAR, In Flames, Helmet, POORSTACY, Crown The Empire, DED, All Good Things, Amigo The Devil, Vended, Mike’s Dead, If I Die First, Orbit Culture, The Luka State, Ego Kill Talent, The Native Howl, Archetypes Collide

Saturday, September 24: KISS, Rob Zombie, Alice Cooper, Chevelle, Ghostemane, Jerry Cantrell, Dance Gavin Dance, Theory of a Deadman, Body Count, Sevendust, Mammoth WVH, We Came As Romans, Airbourne, Cherry Bombs, Ill Niño, Tetrarch, Nita Strauss, Against The Current, Wargasm, Trash Boat, Shaman’s Harvest, Solence, Dropout Kings, Bloodywood

Sunday, September 25: Red Hot Chili Peppers, Alice In Chains, Incubus, Papa Roach, The Pretty Reckless, Architects, Bad Religion, Action Bronson, The Struts, Jelly Roll, Dirty Honey, Anti-Flag, The Joy Formidable, Bayside, The Warning, Royal & The Serpent, caroles daughter, Radkey, The Mysterines, Crown Lands, AEIR, The Alive, As You Were

The Louder Than Life Festival is produced by Danny Wimmer Presents. The festival debuted in 2014 and expanded to four days in 2021.

More information on the 2022 Louder Than Life Festival is available along with all of the festival’s latest news at:

Website: https://www.LouderThanLifeFestival.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/louderthanlifefestival

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ltlfest

To keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews, go online to https://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

The Midnight Preachers Debuts New Single, ‘Summertime,’ Companion Video

Posted on August 13, 2021 by philspicks

Independent rock band The Midnight Preachers debuted its latest single and the song’s video this week.

The band kicked off the weekend by premiering its new song, ‘Summertime‘ and its companion video Friday. Produced by band member Eogan McSheain and mastered by Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal (Sons of Apollo, Guns N’ Roses), the song opens with a guitar riff that while not exactly the same, very closely mirrors that of Red Hot Chili Peppers’ song ‘Under The Bridge.’ That riff continues through the song alongside the gentle vocal delivery of bassist/vocalist Emer McLaughlin and steady time keeping of drummer Colin Kenny to make the song a catchy pop rock composition.

No information was provided about the song’s lyrical theme in the press release announcing the premiere of the single and its video. In listening to the song however, it is clear that this song centers on the all too familiar topic of a romantic relationship.

The video for ‘Summertime’ is a black and white presentation that features the band in what is meant to mirror a live setting. The black and white effect is used to heighten audiences’ engagement and entertainment.

‘Summertime’ is just the latest of The Midnight Preachers’ songs. The band has already released the songs, ‘Pusher Woman,’ ‘Mexico,’ ‘Holding On,’ and ‘California.’

More information on The Midnight Preachers’ new single and video is available along with all of the duo’s latest news and more at:

Website: https://themidnightpreachers.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themidnightpreachers

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MPreachers

Shadow & The Thrill Debuts ‘Just Enough’ Video

Posted on June 26, 2020 by philspicks

Courtesy: Deko Entertainment (ADA/Warner Music Group)

Fledgling blues rock band Shadow & The Thrill is giving audiences their first preview of the band’s debut album.

The band debuted ‘Just Enough‘ Friday. The song is the lead single from the band’s forthcoming album Sugarbowl. The album is scheduled for release Aug. 14 through Deko Entertainment (ADA/Warner Music Group).

The musical arrangement at the center of ‘Just Enough’ is, as noted, a blues-based rock tune with vocals, guitar and bass provided by Tony Cardenas-Montana and drums by Brentt Arcement. Famed producer Sylvia Massy (Tool, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Johnny Cash) oversaw the mixing for the song and the album.

Sugarbowl is just the latest indie record on which Massy has worked. She also has had a hand in the creation of Amon Tobin’s new album The World As We Know It and independent hard rock band Hydraform’s brand new self-titled EP.

Cardenas-Montana’s vocals are instantly comparable to those of Aerosmith front man Steven Tyler. If one were listening to the song without knowing it wasn’t Aerosmith, it would be easy to make that mistake.

Pre-orders are open for Sugarbowl. Those who pre-order the album will receive a bonus track that is not featured with the album through its physical and digital presentations, but the vinyl release will feature that bonus song. Autograph bundles are available.while supplies last here.

Pre-order bundle details are noted below.

Product Includes:
– One (1) Shadow & The Thrill – Sugar Bowl Vinyl (or CD)
– One (1) Shadow & The Thrill Tee
– One (1) Shadow & The Thrill Pick
– One (1) Digital Download of “Misery (Extended Version)”

Sugarbowl‘s track listing is noted below.

Sugarbowl Tracklist:
1. Lovesong
2. Misery
3. The Grind
4. Sugarbowl
5. Ready To Roll
6. Just Enough
7. Crazy
8. Mississippi
9. Unaware
10. Sugarbowl (acoustic) LP ONLY

More information on Shadow & The Thrill’s forthcoming album is available along with all of the group’s latest news at:

Website: http://www.shadowandthethrill.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ShadowandTheThrill

Twitter: http://twitter.com/ShadowandTT

To keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Satriani Leaves Listeners Asking “What Happens Next?” In The Best Way With His New LP

Posted on February 6, 2018 by philspicks

Courtesy Epic Records

Guitar great Joe Satriani has done seemingly everything that can be done by an artist of his caliber and experience. He has built quite the successful solo career. He has served as a member of the famed rock band Deep Purple and as the rock super group Chicken Foot as well as so much more. Considering how much Satriani has done and how much success he has had throughout the course of his decades-long career, one is left asking after each of his releases, “what happens next?” Thus we get the title of his latest album, What Happens Next. Released Jan. 12 via Epic Records, this 16th full-length studio recording from the virtuoso guitarist is everything that audiences have come to expect from Satriani. That is due to the continued growth exhibited throughout the album’s 51-minute run time. That growth is exhibited both in the songs that throw back to Satriani’s established albums and to those that show his continued abilities. That growth is just one part of what makes this album stand out Its sequencing plays its own important part in the album’s overall presentation, too. This element will be discussed later. The record’s production rounds out its most important elements. When it is set alongside the record’s sequencing and clear growth exhibited within the songs’ arrangements, the whole of the elements noted here makes this record a work that will leave listeners asking once again, “What happens next?” in the very best way.

Joe Satriani’s latest full-length studio recording What Happens Next is easily one of this year’s top new rock records. The 12-song record shows yet again over the course of its 51-minute run time why Satriani remains today one of rock’s elite musicians. This is due to the continued growth exhibited throughout the course of the album’s run. Right from the outset, fans familiar with Satriani’s body of work are transported to his 2004 album Is There Love In Space? in ‘Energy.’ the aptly titled song is a straight-forward, up-tempo piece that harkens back to ‘Hands In The Air,’ the third of the album’s offerings. What’s really interesting to note here is that while the songs bear a stylistic similarity in their sounds and energies, it’s obvious that Satriani didn’t just rehash that earlier song. This completely contradicts the statements of so many who have claimed that this album is more of the same from Satriani. One could argue that the album’s second song, ‘Catbot’ also throws back to some of his older works, too. Even with that comparison possible, one has to admit that the song’s arrangement, with its fuzz effect on the guitar bears more similarity to recent works from Royal Blood than anything that Satriani has composed before. The album’s third song, ‘Thunder High on the Mountain’ presents a run that would make Zakk Wylde and Tom Morello proud. It’s the kind of run that Satriani has not composed before, but instantly conjures thoughts of his aforementioned counterparts. Again, it shows that continued growth that has been mentioned so many times already. That display of growth doesn’t end here, either. Rather it continues on throughout the rest of the album. ‘Cherry Blossoms,’ with its contrasting “A” and “B” sections also takes listeners back in time, conjuring thoughts of perhaps works from Satriani’s 1998 album Crystal Planet while also changing things up considerably. The changes come in the form of the string arrangements in the “A” sections and the more reserved guitar line in the “B” section. The song gets even more lively in its bridge, with Satriani just letting go. ‘Headrush,’ with its uptemp guitar lick instantly conjures thoughts of ‘Satch Boogie,’ from Satriani’s 1987 album Surfing With The Alien. Deep Purple bassist Glenn Hughes’ walking bass line in this song adds a nice bluesy touch that helps in its own way the growth, as does Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith with his polyrhythmic patterns. It’s yet another way in which this record reaches back in time while also looking clearly forward. As if that wasn’t example enough, ‘Super Funky Badass’ reaches back to Satriani’s ’06 record Super Colossal thanks to its arrangement. Yet again though, as much as it bears similarities to songs from that record, it also establishes its own identity, thanks again to its arrangement. There is some material here that is slightly more intense than the music on Super Colossal. That contrast and comparison once more proves that this record is in fact not just more of the same from Satriani. It shows that while yes, there are some similarities between songs here and his established works, there is just as much new to appreciate from start to finish. Much the same could be argued of every one of the other songs not noted here. That being the case, when those songs are joined with the works directly discussed here, the arrangements featured here form a solid foundation for the record’s presentation. They are not the album’s only important collective element either. Its sequencing is important to discuss, too.

The sequencing at the heart of What Happens Next is important to its whole because of the general effect that it creates through the song’s energies. The album starts off rather upbeat, as has already been noted. Even with the momentary reservation in energy in ‘Thunder High on The Mountain,’ that decline is only momentary. The same can be said of the energy in the album’s fourth track, ‘Cherry Blossoms.’ The song’s energy feels slightly reserved at times, but even in that reservation, it doesn’t necessarily slow down per se. It’s something that must be heard to be fully understood and appreciated. It’s just a nice solid balanced up and down of energies within the very context of the one song. That balance is just as evident in ‘Righteous.’ As the album enters its midpoint in ‘Smooth Soul,’ the album does markedly slow down, but it’s in a good way. That pullback gives listeners just enough time to breath before Satriani launches into the much more up-tempo ‘Headrush,’ which again is another throwback composition that shows a certain growth from the professor. The album’s energies vary even more as the album makes its way through its second half from contemplative to playful to gentle and reserved to close things out. Simply put, from one song to the next, the album’s energies remain stable without fault. That being the case, it shows plenty of thought was put into the album’s sequencing, proving once and for all why the album’s sequencing is so important to the album’s whole. It is not the last of the album’s important elements, either. The album’s production rounds out its most important elements.

The production at the center of What Happens Next is important to discuss because of the general effect that it has on the album’s overall presentation. Just as the album’s energy is balanced from start to finish in this record, ensuring listeners’ maintained engagement, so are each of the trio’s parts in each song. Satriani, Hughes and Smith each shine throughout the record thanks to producer Mike Fraser’s work. This should come as no surprise considering that Fraser has worked with Satriani for so many years. The pair’s friendship and understanding of one another comes across clearly throughout this record as not only Satch gets plenty of time, but he also gladly gives up the spotlight so many times in favor of teamwork from his fellow musicians. Because each member of the group gets his own time to shine (and plenty of it at that), the end result is a record that sounds great and new from beginning to end even with its comparisons to its predecessors. When this is considered alongside the expertly balanced energies exhibited throughout the record’s sequencing and the impressive and enjoyable arrangements at the heart of each song, the whole of those elements shows without doubt why this record will indeed leave listeners asking “What happens next?” in the best way possible.

Joe Satriani’s 16th full-length studio recording What Happens Next is, while maybe not one of his landmark offerings, still an enjoyable record that is certain to leave listeners asking “What happens next?” in the best possible way. That statement is proven in part through 12 musical arrangements that take listeners through Satriani’s past, present and even future. The sequencing of those songs strengthens the record even more thanks to the balance of energy from one song to the next. The record’s production puts the final touch to its presentation. Each element is important in its own right, as has been pointed out. All things considered, this record is another impressive and enjoyable offering from one of the true masters. It is a work that once more will leave listeners asking “what happens next?” in all of the best ways possible. More information on What Happens Next is available online now along with all of Satriani’s latest news and more at:

Website: http://www.satriani.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/joesatriani

Twitter: http://twitter.com/chickenfootjoe

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Chino XL, Rama Duke Create New Take On Chili Peppers Classic

Posted on March 8, 2017 by philspicks

Red Hot Chili Peppers’ song ‘Under The Bridge’ is one of the greatest, most iconic rock songs of the 20^th century. That is because of the song’s subject matter in its lyrical content and a musical arrangement that expertly captures that emotion. Now, that iconic composition has been re-worked by the duo of Chino XL and Rama Duke and given a whole new life and identity.

The duo’s new re-working of the band’s song has given it a hip-hop vibe that also maintains the guitar riff that helped the original composition become so beloved, adding to the song’s interest even more.

As if that is not enough, the song’s companion, which can be viewed online now here, touches just as much on the new lyrics, making the new take on the classic hit even harder.

Courtesy: O’Donnell Media Group

Jarred Gosselin, 1520 Entertainment partner, said he hoped this updated take on the timeless RHCP song would hit this generation just as hard as the original song.

“We hope that our hybrid version of ‘Under The Bridge’ might save some lives and inspire a new generation,” Gosselin said. He added the inspiration to craft the song came after he heard her working on a cover of the song with a band in the early 2000s. That take on the song was never released, said Gosselin.

Chino XL and Rama Duke’s updated take of ‘Under The Bridge’ is playing at radio stations nationwide now. It is also available for download at all major digital distribution sites.

A portion of the song’s sales will go to benefit the California-based Action Family Foundation, which works with young people and their families to resolve issues related to drugs, alcohol, sex and drugs.

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Franti’s Latest LP “Rocks” Phil’s PIcks 2016 Albums Of The Year List

Posted on December 30, 2016 by philspicks

Michael Franti and Spearhead Soulrocker Cover Art

Courtesy: Fantasy Records

The time has come. Today is New Year’s Eve eve. That means 2016 is nearly in the books. With that year right at it’s end, it’s time for the last two of this year’s Phil’s Picks best of lists.

Rounding out this year’s lists are the year’s top new albums overall and the year’s top new overall movies. The year’s top new albums list is up first. It was not an easy list to assemble either as there were so many stand out records released from across the musical universe’s many genres.

This year’s top albums list is represented by music from the jazz community, the world of children’s music, rock, blues, and even reggae in the form of Michael Franti and Spearhead’s new album Soulrocker.

As with every previous Phil’s Picks list, this list features Phil’s Picks’ top 10 new titles plus five honorable mention titles, bringing the total count to 15. Having noted that here for you is Phil’s Picks 2016 Top 10 new albums.

PHIL’S PICKS 2016 TOP 10 NEW ALBUMS

Michael Franti & Spearhead – Soulrocker

Santana – IV

Joe Bonamassa – Blues of Desperation

Yellowjackets – Cohearance

Foghat – Under The Influence

The Okee Dokee Brothers – Saddle Up

Songs of the Night: Dance Recordings by the Joseph C. Smith Orchestra 1916 – 1925

Marian Hill – Act I

Love and a .38 – Nomad

Red Hot Chili Peppers – The Getaway

Rich Robinson – Flux

Charles Lloyd and the Marvels – I Long To See You

Logan Richardson – Shift

Tedeschi Trucks Band – Let Me Get By

Mountain Heart – Blue Sky

Veteran Rock Acts Tops Phil’s Picks 2016 Top 10 New Rock Albums List

Posted on December 9, 2016 by philspicks

Courtesy: Santana IV Records

The rock community, it seems, was bursting at the seams with new releases this year. While some records were okay at best, there were just as many that proved to be truly outstanding efforts. Needless to say there were so many of said albums that it was anything but easy to come up with a list of the year’s top new rock records. But somehow, Phil’s Picks managed it. That list includes new efforts from bands young and old alike. The more experienced bands featured on this list include: Santana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Foghat just to name a few. The younger bands represented here include the likes of Buffalo Summer, Love and a .38, and Zodiac. Whether veteran or next generation, the rock community produced a slew of outstanding records this year.

Phil’s Picks presents 15 of those records with its Top 10 picks and five honorable mention titles. Without any further ado, here is the Phil’s Picks 2016 Top 10 New Rock Albums.

PHIL’S PICKS 2016 TOP 10 NEW ROCK ALBUMS

Santana – IV

Foghat – Under The Influence

The Dead Daisies – Make Some Noise

Love and a .38 – Nomad

Buffalo Summer – Second Sun

Alter Bridge – The Last Hero

Zodiac – Grain of Soul

Red Hot Chili Peppers – The Getaway

Blackberry Smoke – Like An Arrow

Resurrection Kings – Resurrection Kings

Skillet – Unleashed

Apollo Under Fire – Apollo Under Fire

Fates Warning – Theory of Flight

Ray Rocket – Do You Wanna Go To Tijuana

Candlebox – Disappearing in Airports

Red Hot Chili Peppers Announce Spring/Summer 2017 North American Live Dates

Posted on November 8, 2016 by philspicks

Photo Credit: Steve Keros

Red Hot Chili Peppers is extending its current run of live dates.

The band announced this week that it has added a string of dates for Spring and Summer 2017 to its current touring schedule. The band’s new dates, which will be in support of its latest full-length studio recording The Getaway, begin April 12 in the nation’s capitol and run through June 30 in Chicago, IL.

The band will take about three weeks off at the end of its current tour schedule, listed below, before launching its spring/summer 2017 North American tour. The upcoming spring/summer 2017 schedule also includes a pair of dates in North Carolina for the band’s fans in the “Tarheel State.” Those dates are noted in the band’s full live schedule listed below.

Previously Announced Tour Dates:

5-Jan	San Antonio, TX	AT&T Center
7-Jan	Houston, TX	Toyota Center
8-Jan	Dallas, TX	American Airlines Arena
10-Jan	New Orleans, LA	Smoothie King Center
12-Jan	Memphis, TN	Fed Ex Forum
14-Jan	Tulsa, OK	BOK Center
15-Jan	Wichita, KS	In Trust Arena
18-Jan	St. Louis, MO	Scottrade Center
20-Jan	Lincoln, NE	Pinnacle Bank Arena
21-Jan	Minneapolis, MN	Target Center
2-Feb	Detroit, MI	Joe Louis Arena
4-Feb	Toronto, ON	Air Canada Center
7-Feb	Boston, MA	TD Garden
8-Feb	Boston, MA	TD Garden
10-Feb	Buffalo, NY	First Niagara Center
12-Feb	Philadelphia, PA	Wells Fargo Arena
13-Feb	Philadelphia, PA	Wells Fargo Arena
15-Feb	New York, NY	Madison Square Garden
17-Feb	New York, NY	Madison Square Garden
18-Feb	New York, NY	Madison Square Garden
2-Mar	Denver, CO	Pepsi Center
4-Mar	Glendale, AZ	Gila River Arena
5-Mar	San Diego, CA	Valley View Casino Center
7-Mar	Los Angeles, CA	Staples Center
8-Mar	Los Angeles, CA	Staples Center
10-Mar	Los Angeles, CA	Staples Center
12-Mar	Oakland, CA	Oracle Arena
15-Mar	Portland, OR	Rose Quarter – Moda Center
17-Mar	Seattle, WA	Key Arena
18-Mar	Vancouver, BC	Rogers Arena

Newly Announced Dates:

12-Apr	Washington, DC	Verizon Center
14-Apr	Atlanta, GA	Philips Arena
15-Apr	Raleigh, NC	PNC Arena
17-Apr	Charlotte, NC	Spectrum Center
19-Apr	Columbia, SC	Colonial Life Arena
22-Apr	Little Rock, AR	Verizon Arena
24-Apr	Jacksonville, FL	Veterans Memorial Arena
26-Apr	Orlando, FL	Amway Center
27-Apr	Tampa, FL	Amalie Arena
29-Apr	Miami, FL	American Airlines Arena
11-May	Pittsburgh, PA	PPG Paints Arena
13-May	Cleveland, OH	Quicken Loans
14-May	Columbus, OH	Schottenstein Center-
16-May	Louisville, KY	KFC Yum! Center
18-May	Indianapolis, IN	Bankers Life Fieldhouse
19-May	Cincinnati, OH	US Bank Arena
21-May	Kansas City	Sprint Center
23-May	Des Moines, IA	Wells Fargo Arena
26-May	Winnipeg, MB	MTS Centre
28-May	Edmonton, AB	Rogers Place
29-May	Calgary, AB	Scotiabank Saddledome
18-Jun	Quebec, QC	Vidéotron
20-Jun	Montreal , QC	Bell Centre
22-Jun	Hamilton, ON	FirstOntario Centre
23-Jun	Ottawa, ON	Canadian Tire Centre
25-Jun	Grand Rapids, MI	Van Andel Arena
30-Jun	Chicago, IL	United Center

Courtesy: Warner Brothers Records

The Getaway has performed very well domestically since its release this past June. The record debuted at #1 on the Billboard Album Sales Chart, and #2 on the Billboard Top 200 Chart. It is the band’s seventh record to reach the top 10 in the magazine’s chart and its third to reach the #2 spot on Billboard’s Top 200 chart.

The album has performed very well internationally, too. It debuted at #1 in Australia, Belgium, Ireland, The Netherlands and New Zealand. It debuted at #2 in the United Kingdom and Germany.

More information on Red Hot Chili Peppers’ new tour dates is available online now along with all of the band’s latest news and more at:

Website: http://redhotchilipeppers.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ChiliPeppers

Twitter: http://twitter.com/chilipeppers

‘The Getaway’ Shows Again Why RHCP Remains One Of Rock’s Elite Acts

Posted on July 22, 2016 by philspicks

Courtesy: Warner Brothers Records

It’s hard to believe and might make some out there feel old, but Red Hot Chili Peppers recently released its eleventh full-length studio recording. The Getaway was released just last month via Warner Brothers Records. It is the eleventh album that the band has released in what is now a three-decades plus career. That is a telling statement about the band. It shows that even through so many lineup changes and even a changing industry the band has shown that it is still just as relevant today as it was when it formed way back in 1983. It can be postulated that the reason for this continued success is linked to the band’s own adaptation to the changes in the musical community. The band has changed up its sound on every one of its records, maintaining its originality from one record to the next. The same applies to the lyrical content presented within each of the band’s records. Both of these changes are just as evident in The Getaway just as much as they are in the band’s previous albums. That obvious update to the band’s sound and lyrical content makes this record yet another Red Hot Chili Peppers success story and one more of 2016’s top new rock records.

Red Hot Chili Peppers new album The Getaway is its own enjoyable escape for audiences. That is due to the fact that yet again the band has change up its sound and its lyrical content from that of its previous album. It is a practice that the band has maintained throughout the course of its now three decades-plus life span. That new approach makes the album not just another new enjoyable escape but also one more of 2016’s top new rock records. One of the points at which this changed sound is most evident in the band’s new album is the album’s lead single ‘Dark Necessities.’ Looking at the song’s musical arrangement it presents a sound that is very much unlike that of the band’s body of work. Given, Flea’s bass line is somewhat familiar here. It harkens back to the days of the band’s 1991 album Blood Sugar Sex Magik, but in the bigger picture of the song’s arrangement it boasts a very distinct identity that is separate from anything else that the band has crafted. That is thanks to the use of the string arrangements and gentle, flowing piano line at the base of the arrangement. Drummer Chad Smith’s work behind the kit and guitarist Josh Klinghoffer’s guitar line add their own original touch to the song. The whole that those separate lines makes the song’s musical arrangement original and enjoyable in its own right. The song’s lyrical content cannot be ignored here either. That is because of the topic on which that content touches. Front man Anthony Kiedis recently discussed the song’s topic. He noted in his interview that the song addresses what he called “the beauty of our dark sides” and the good that actually comes from that inner darkness. It really makes sense as so many of the best songs (regardless of genre) come from those dark places within their writers. Kiedis’ statement rings true as he sings in the song’s chorus, “You don’t know my mind/Dark necessities are part of my design/And tell the world that I’m/Falling from the sky/Dark necessities are part of my design. That is made even more evident in the song’s lead verse in which Kiedis sings, “Coming on to the light of day we got/Many moons that are deep at play/Keep an eye on the shadow smile/To see what it has to say/You and I both know/Everything must go away/What do you say/Spinning off/Head is on my heart/It’s like a bit of light in a touch of dark/You got the sneak attack from the zodiac/But I se your fire spark/Keep the breeze and go/Blow by blow and go away/What do you say/Yeah. He comes across as using metaphors to illustrate the contrast of light and dark in people’s lives. That is exemplified by that opening line comparing the “many moons deep at play” in the “light of day.” The many moons could be that dark side, all the negativity while the light is…well…the light. And that proverbial “sneak attack from the zodiac” is the dark contrast to the spark seen in the subject. He is not noting literally the zodiac killer, but using that as a metaphor, again, for the darkness trying to tear a person down. This is all, of course, just this critic’s interpretation of these lines. But they would make sense considering Kiedis’ explanation of the song. Here is so much negativity hidden inside a person (or people) but it is defeated by using it to one’s own strength. This, and the song’s original musical arrangement, partner to make the song a powerful statement and an original one. It is just one of the album’s most standout songs and one example of what makes the song in whole stand out. ‘Encore’ is another of the album’s key compositions.

‘Dark Necessities’ is one of the most important compositions included in The Getaway. That is because it exhibits both through its musical arrangement and its lyrical content the continued evolution of the band’s sound and its lyrical content. It presents a very deep concept in its lyrical content in the good that actually comes from that dark place inside each one of us. The song’s musical arrangement does plenty to illustrate the emotion of considering that good from bad. As important as it is to the album in whole it is not the album’s only key composition. ‘Encore’ does just as much to exhibit the band’s continued evolution. Its musical arrangement is a clear starting point in discussing this. By and large, the song’s musical foundation is formed by Klinghoffer’s guitar work, Kiedis’ vocal delivery, and yet again, a gentle piano line that runs through the course of the song. Each piece presents is own deeply reserved sound. When they are assembled together the overall sound is one that, again, is unlike most of what the band has ever crafted. It is a sound that will touch listeners on a very deep, emotional level. The song’s seemingly retrospective lyrical content adds to that emotional depth. That seeming retrospective approach is exhibited in the song’s lead verse as Kiedis sings, “Listen to The Beatles and the sound of laughing Ed McMahon, we got high/Educated by a world so full of self/and lost in space/too much pride/Cosmonauts and dirty thoughts/Are juggling the juggernaut/Soviet spy/Every now and then I remember to befriend/The little things in life. It instantly seems that Kiedis is reminiscing about his youth, that golden age of life, supporting the supposition that this song is indeed a personal retrospection of sorts, right down to its title. That supposition is strengthened even more in the song’s second verse as Kiedis sings, “Later on I’ll read to you/The things that I’ve been needing to say goodbye/Walk away from mom and dad to find the love you never had/tell no lies/Carry on and write a song/that says it all and shows it off ‘fore you die/Take a little breath/Before you catch an early death/There is so much sky.” That opening line in which Kiedis sings “Later on Ill read to you/The things that I’ve been needing to say goodbye” it seems like he is saying, “let me talk to you about the things that I need to let go of from my past.” His writing “Carry on and write a song/That says it all and shows it off” adds to that belief about the retrospective lyrical message even more. The song’s third and final verse hints at that message even more even as short as it is. Even considering this, one should take this critic’s interpretation with a grain of salt. It is not meant to be gospel. It could be entirely off the mark. Though, considering this content, one has to believe that it is somewhere in the proverbial ballpark. Right or wrong, the song’s seeming retrospective lyrics and equally reserved musical arrangement make the song all the more engaging. In turn this engagement shows why the song is yet another of The Getaway’s key compositions and another example of what makes the album in whole stand out. It still is not the album’s last notable composition. ‘This Ticonderoga’ is one more of the record’s standout songs.

‘Dark Necessities’ and ‘Encore’ are both select songs included in The Getaway. That is because of the evolution that they exhibit in regards to the band’s sound and lyrical versatility. That growth, both musically and lyrically, serves to exhibit in the bigger picture, what makes the album in whole stand out. They are not the only songs that serve to do this. ‘This Ticonderoga’ stands out just as much as those aforementioned songs. One of the reasons that it stands out so blatantly is its musical arrangement. The song’s musical arrangement boasts a full-on garage rock sound. That is a sound that is distinctly different from the majority of the band’s previous compositions. It is driven largely by Klinghoffer’s guitar work and Smith’s drumming. Of course the piano and string arrangements that are used in the song’s chorus sections make for a start contrast to that garage rock sound. It even adds a certain extra something to the song’s overall arrangement. The song’s lyrical content adds its own element to the song, too. The song’s lyrical content is sure to leave listeners thinking and talking even more than its musical arrangement. It may even leave listeners thinking and talking more so than the lyrical content presented in any of the album’s other offerings. That is because of the depth of that material. The song’s shorter moments seem to speak the loudest in examining the song. One of those shorter lines sees Kiedis singing, “We are all just soldiers in this battlefield of life/One thing that’s for certain is my burning appetite. That statement is switched up slightly in another of those noted shorter moments with Kiedis singing, “We are all just soldiers in this open field of time/Hoping to get with you when get right with your mind.” It is echoed again one more time at the song’s end and is switched up again with Kiedis singing in that last refrain, “We are all just soldiers in this loving fight/And no one that I know has ever really done it right.” These refrains seem to hint at a message that throughout everything (time and life) we are all just a tiny part of it all. That is hinted even more in the larger part of the verses. Early on Kiedis sings about what one must assume is his youth when he writes about a man who wanted him to join his band. He then shares a small anecdote about a failed relationship (for which he blames himself here) before eventually writing about meeting the woman who would become his wife. It is from here that he makes the statement about everyone being “soldiers in the loving fight.” There is even a tribute to Kiedis’ friend and band mate Flea thrown in for good measure. It seems to be used in relation to his recollection of his early days in the music business. All of this would seem to, again, tie together those previously noted, smaller verse elements. Those smaller elements come together with the larger verse elements to generate a lyrical makeup here that is just as deep as that of any of the album’s other songs. And together with the song’s musical arrangement, the two elements come together to make ‘This Ticonderoga’ stand out just as much as ‘Encore’ and ‘Dark Necessities.’ It stands out just as much against the rest of the album’s songs not noted here, too. When it is set against those songs, the band’s growth is exhibited even more clearly. That clearly exhibited growth goes on to show again why the record in whole is another great escape and another one of 2016’s top new rock records.

The Getaway is yet another great escape from Red Hot Chili Peppers. It is also one more of the year’s top new rock records. That is due to the continued growth and change exhibited by the band throughout the course of the record’s thirteen songs. The change in question is exhibited in the song’s musical arrangements and even its lyrical content. It is something that is rare nowadays by artists throughout the musical universe. In turn it makes both the band and its new album even more deserving of respect. Whether in the seemingly retrospective ‘Encore,’ the philosophical ‘Dark Necessities,’ or even the equally thought-provoking ‘This Ticonderoga’ the band exhibits so much growth and change. The album’s other offerings exemplify that growth and change just as much. All things considered, the overall growth and change exhibited by this record makes it undeniably a great new escape from Red Hot Chili Peppers and one more of the year’s top new rock records. It is available now in stores and online. More information on The Getaway is available online now along with all of the band’s latest news and more at:

Website: http://www.redhotchilipeppers.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ChiliPeppers

Twitter: http://twitter.com/ChiliPeppers

The Getaway Has Finally Gotten Here

Posted on June 17, 2016 by philspicks

Courtesy: Warner Brothers Records

The Getaway has finally gotten here.

Red Hot Chili Peppers’ latest album is now available in stores and online today worldwide. In anticipation of the album’s release, the band debuted the video for its new single ‘Dark Necessities’ yesterday. The video, directed by Olivia Wilde, can be viewed online now here. Wilde had a chance to sit down and discuss working with the band on the video and had only positive remarks about the filming process. “It was an honor and a thrill to create this video with such wonderful artists,” she said, “who happen to make up one of the greatest bands of all time.” The video features appearances by renowned long board surfers Carmen Shafer, Amanda Caloia, Amanda Powell, and Noelle Mulligan.

Courtesy: Warner Brothers Records

Courtesy: BBGun Press/Viacom/CBS

Along with its new video premiere, the band also made an appearance on CBS’ Late Late Show With James Corden earlier this week. The band took part in the show’s “Carpool Karaoke” segment in which it performed some of its own classic hits, new music, and more. Audiences can view that appearance online now here.

Photo credit: Jeremy Harris

Those appearances are not the only ones for the band this week. DIRECTV, Audience Network, and U-Verse will present a special performance by the band tonight. The performance was recorded recently by the band at the iHeart Theater L.A. It can be seen tonight at 9pm ET/PT on DIRECTV Channel 239 and on U-Verse Channel 1114. It features a number of the band’s classic and newer material including: ‘Can’t Stop,’ ‘Other Side,’ ‘By The Way, and ‘Soul To Squeeze’ among many others. The band is gearing up to make its way across the world at a number of major concert festivals in support of The Getaway. Audiences can check out the band’s current tour schedule online now here. More information on The Getaway, the band’s tour schedule, additional live appearances, and more is available online now at:

Website: http://www.redhotchilipeppers.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ChiliPeppers

Twitter: http://twitter.co/chilipeppers

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The Getaway Has Finally Gotten Here