20 June 2004 (gig)
23 June 2004
As a life long, dedicated fan of the chili peppers, I had been eagerly awaiting this gig for months. Their spectacular performance at last years V festival left me with high expectations for the Hyde Park extravaganza.
As much as I have refused to slag off this gig, it is time for me to come clean once and for all. I am utterly disappointed to tell you the truth, and it's not easy (believe me) for me to admit it.
After withstanding rain, wind AND James Brown, the Red Hot Chili Peppers finally graced the stage. They kicked off with a particularly weak sounding 'Can't Stop' which surprisingly got the crowd going. They also pulled out 'Scar Tissue', which in my opinion was very sad to see so early on, especially before they had got over the initial teething problems with the sound.
Things did start to look up though; they decided to have a crack at an old Donna Summer cover 'I Feel Love'. I know what you are thinking, but it actually sounded grand, and it let Chad Smith show us exactly where the 'Red Hot' bit came from. Solid as ever all the way through, Chad was definitely the star of the show, with Flea a close second.
They did a couple of different bits, but primarily stuck to 'By the Way' and 'Californication' which was a little astonishing as I don't think that is what they are solely about, and the old funky stuff has been sadly forgotten about. Even 'Blood Sugar Sex Magik' has vanished into thin air these days. You might be a bit older these days boys, but surly your memories are still at least vaguely in tact?
Overall, it was a good gig (after all, it was the Chili Peppers!) but, I expected more than just good and Anthony, I love you dearly, but please could you learn to sing live? (and in tune??)
