CD Review (From Barry And District News)

CD Review

RED Hot Chili Pepper's latest album By The Way is a worthy follow up to their last one, Californication.

This newest release contains 16 tracks of differing tempos and sounds. The lyrics are typically the Chilis', the vocals are unmistakably Anthony Kiedis and the guitar work undeniably Flea.

Don't Forget Me and I Could Die For You are lovely ballads while the title track By The Way is a classic example of the Chilis' individual and distinctive style. For any Chili fans out there, this is a must. And if someone fancies taking a dive into the band for the first time, it's a good place to start. The new album is mellow but upbeat, meaningful and bizarre by turn.

By The Way is an excellent collection of songs and the Chilis have obviously worked closely with producer Rick Rubin to come up with a very interesting album that has both surreal and very down-to-earth words if you want to listen beyond the music. But if you don't want to analyse, just put the CD on, sit back and enjoy.