You’re familiar with the routine. Ask an experienced musician about their career regrets; they usually claim they wouldn’t change anything. However, Flea is different. The RHCP bassist recently had an interview with the LA Times, where he revealed his desire to re-record the band’s first album.
The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ debut self-titled album was released in 1984. In his conversation with the paper’s music critic, Mikael Wood, Flea expressed his wish to revisit that material. He admitted, “I always regret how we made the first one. I think the songs are outstanding. Our band was exceptional at the time. But both Jack (drummer) and Hillel (guitarist) quit, and we brought in two other guys: Jack Sherman and Cliff Martinez.”
Flea acknowledged the new members’ talent but felt their connection could have been more profound than the original lineup. He often wanted to return and re-record that album but has yet to convince others to join him.
In the past, Flea has also expressed a desire to “go back and fix” a track on the band’s 1995 album, “One Hot Minute.” However, with the 40th anniversary RHCP’s debut album approaching, it seems like his best opportunity to persuade his current bandmates to participate in new recording sessions. This is especially relevant because the band has rehearsed material from their early releases since John Frusciante rejoined the group last year.
Regarding Flea’s former bandmates, Cliff Martinez went on to have a successful career in music, particularly in film scoring during the 1990s, contributing to movies such as “Drive,” “Traffic,” and “The Lincoln Lawyer.” Jack Sherman, the guitarist, collaborated with notable musicians like Bob Dylan and George Clinton before passing in 2020.
In other parts of the interview, Flea discussed John Frusciante’s performance on the current tour. Flea had expressed concerns about how Frusciante would adapt to the band’s demanding tour schedule. However, he praised Frusciante’s dedication and preparation, stating, “It’s been excellent. Each gig is like a sacred thing for him. In true John fashion, he practices for five hours before every show, playing every solo from Jeff Beck’s ‘Blow by Blow’ and warming up his fingers.”
Frusciante has always been diligent in his practice, sometimes to an extreme extent. This motivation was evident when his guitar teacher told him he wasn’t good enough, prompting him to start learning Steve Vai licks.
