Red Hot Chili Peppers w/ Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and Jack Irons
KeyArena, Seattle, WA
03.17.17

Thirty-four years as a band is nothing to scoff at, and despite some admitted growing pains, Red Hot Chili Peppers are still a force of commercial alt-rock nature. Touring in support of their 2016 album, The Getaway, the LA veterans sold out Seattle’s KeyArena. And they delivered their iconic funk-laced rock flawlessly to avid fans.

Jack Irons – the original RHCP drummer – opened the show, with a set that included a guest vocal from none other than Eddie Vedder. And then the adoring crowd was treated to the massive talent and energy of Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue.

But it was RHCP these fans were really here for, and they got the dynamic night they were looking for. Their stage set up covered the arena in a grid of candle-like lights that dipped up and down, changing colors. Giant screens lined the backdrop, with bright graphics blasting out from behind drummer, Chad Smith, including live stylized footage from videographers in front of the stage.

The band’s energy throughout their 18-song set easily exceeded expectations, like the day the started. Both Anthony Kiedis and Flea jumped all over the stage, pumping each other up. For his part, Kiedis’ vocals sounded surprisingly better live than they do on record.

The amount of camaraderie and love between the band members – including new guitarist Josh Klinghoffer – showed. Flea and Klinghoffer were always starting songs near Smith, while Kiedis hopped around them. Put all the massive visuals together with the palpable energy of the band and you have, without question, an unforgettable night.

Review and photos by Sunny Martini

Red Hot Chili Peppers, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and Jack Irons