Veterans of the rock scene still Red Hot

The Red Hot Chili Peppers are the undisputed pioneers of the Funk Rock genre. Drug-fuelled sex binges inspired some of the greatest pieces of music ever created – ‘Under The Bridge’ deservedly ranks as Rolling Stone magazine's 15th Greatest Song of All Time – and they possess a death-rate of past band members like no other.

They cemented the notoriety of rock music and its universal appeal, not to mention its ferocious popularity. From their self-titled debut of 1983, the Red Hot Chili Peppers have soared to nothing short of a phenomenon. Icons of a generation and with worldwide acclaim, they returned this year with ‘I’m With You’, their tenth studio record and the group’s first release following a six-year hiatus.

The highly-anticipated promotional tour kicked off in the summer, and on 12 November the SECC was graced by the stupendous talent of Anthony Kiedis, founding bassist Flea, drum veteran Chad Smith and newest member Josh Klinghoffer as the Red Hot Chili Peppers took to the stage once more in all their majestic glory.

Following an ambivalent reception, the more popular tracks from their latest album featured, albeit far fewer than normally expected of a promotional tour. Opening with the pounding anthem ‘Monarchy Of Roses’, Kiedis then launched into ‘Dani California’, Klinghoffer absolutely perfecting the guitar solo made famous by his predecessor.

There were sceptics of his ability to fill the mighty boots of John Frusciante. However simply not enough praise can be given for Klinghoffer – brilliantly executing the guitar riffs that Frusciante coined and of which consequently so many adored. Impromptu jams with Flea between tracks accentuated the unbridled talent and gorgeous vocal abilities found within Klinghoffer.

The surprising absence of newer tracks was of no expense to the show, though. And why would it be? Plucked from their greatest-selling records ‘Californication’, the stage came alive with the eminent openings of ‘Can't Stop’, ‘By The Way’ and ‘Otherside’. Not one body stood still as the crowd chanted back every lyric.

These climactic, bass-laden tracks elevated the crowd into euphoria, subdued only by the enchanting stage presence and spontaneity of Kiedis. His performance was every bit as vivacious as his younger stage appearances. Often criticised for his live vocal abilities, Kiedis was on top form; ‘Higher Ground’ in particular showcasing his original and foremost talent as an MC. ‘Scar Tissue’ allowed for the simplistic genius of the Red Hot Chili Peppers to shine. The simple guitar and drum riffs enabled the audience to appreciate Kiedis’ gift of writing the most obscurely poetic lyrics.

A flawless performance of ‘Under the Bridge’ sounded every bit as beautiful live as it does on the album it originates from, generating haunting nostalgia for a bygone era. Emotion was evident in the face of the musicians.

But it must be said that a Red Hot Chili Peppers gig is not only a music event. They are in fact fantastic performers and the affair was a wondrous display of showmanship. Their appreciation and gratitude to their fans is clear, and they will do anything to satisfy them. A particular performance from Flea remains resonant – a stunning seven-minute bass solo had the crowd in ecstasy as his band mates similarly watched on in awe.

An electric performance of ‘Around The World’ leading straight into ‘Give it Away’ was an encore befitting this sensational two-hour set. A final performance of ‘Soul To Squeeze’ was a poignant reminder of why this band are so successful. Generations had gathered in Glasgow – those fans from the very beginning, from the ‘Freakey Styley’ days rocked with the younger fans only beginning to develop their taste in music. Children no older than eight years of age were crammed happily at the barrier, just as grey-haired rockers watched contentedly from further back. The overall consensus was absolute appreciation for the incomparable talent of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

The 80s and 90s saw them blow their peers out of the water. The way music is appreciated has changed, yet talent as such as the Red Hot Chili Peppers will never date. Here’s to another 30 years.