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 The Red Hot Chili Peppers have been
together for almost 25 years, but their music continues to
be a powerful influence on the alternative and funk rock
music scene around the world. On February 27th, 2007, the
Red Hot Chili Peppers took the stage at Chicago’s All State
Arena, performing for a sold-out crowd of long-time loyal
fans.
The show opened with a full-on jam session between lead
guitarist John Frusciante and legendary bassist Flea,
culminating in the paramount appearance of lead vocalist
Anthony Kiedis, who jumped right into “Can’t Stop,” an
audience favorite since its release in 2002. The dynamic
melody of rips and rhymes continued with “Dani California,”
a featured hit single on the band’s most recent double-disk
release, Stadium Arcadium, which won Best Album at the 2006
MTV Awards and Best Rock Album at the 2007 Grammy Awards.
The energy level swelled as the Red Hot Chili Peppers
frantically ripped through well-known beloved tunes like
“Scar Tissue,” “By the Way,” and “Californication,” which
were interspersed with the tantalizing funk rock melodies
from their new album, including current hit singles “Snow
(Hey Oh),” “Charlie,” and “Readymade.” The blend of classic
hits and popular new songs made for a well-crafted
performance in its entirety.
Energy levels soared; there was never a moment when Kiedis
had both feet on the ground. His signature performance
style, a chaotic blend of wild and outlandish jumps, spins,
twists, and turns, kept audience members’ heads spinning and
bodies in constant motion. The entire venue seemed to be
overcome by an elated and energetic sense of euphoria that
can only be experienced at a live Red Hot Chili Peppers
show. After nearly a quarter-century of being at the
forefront of the music industry, the Red Hot Chili Peppers
continue to uphold their legendary status as trendsetting
funk rock icons celebrated world-wide.
The show opened with a spirited performance by Gnarls
Barkley, accompanied by singer Cee-Lo and DJ Danger Mouse.
Famous for his wacky costume choices that he changes for
every performance, he and his backup musicians appeared on
stage dressed in school boy uniforms. Of course, Gnarls
Barkley included his current hit single “Crazy” at the end
of his set list. In his introduction to the song, he
announced that it should have been awarded best single this
year, but it still made him a rich man.
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