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Reviewed by: Jeffrey Portnoy |
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After Michael Anthony and Sammy Hagar were given pink slips/quit (depending on who you ask) from Van Halen, they took some time off and leisurely jammed with other musicians. Sammy’s Cabo Wabo club provided the venue for many of these jams, and eventually they hooked up with 2 rockers that complimented them. Thus Chickenfoot emerged, and cemented Michael and Sammy’s return to rock royalty. One of the few guitarists that could fill Eddie’s shoes, Joe Satriani always wanted to play in a band setting and here was his chance. Rounding out the quartet is a funky drummer named Chad Smith, from a lil’ known indie band called Red Hot Chilli Peppers. Chickenfoot (the band and album) are pretty much what you’d expect…and that’s a good thing. Their debut record is blues-based hard rock superbly produced by the band and the legendary Andy Johns. “Avenida Revolution”, about the Tijuana drug wars, showcases Sammy’s powerful vocals and Satch lets loose on “Soap On A Rope”. “Sexy Little Thing” begins with a Middle Eastern theme and Transforms itself into an all-out rocker. “Oh Yeah” is a bombastic blues number, with the band wearing its influence on its shirt. The brooding, yet Mexicana party tinged “Get It Up” showcases Chad’s versatility, making the transition from mid tempo funk anthems to heavy rockers. The band takes a tender turn on “Learning Fall”, a power ballad for the new century. All the elements are here. Michael Anthony’s trademark background vocals. Joe’s trademark shredding. Sammy’s incredible vocal range. Chad’s powerful backbeat. Chickenfoot has taken the individual abilities of these rock veterans and combined them to form a kick ass rock album. This project shows that none of these musicians are willing to rest on their laurels. They are making music for the here and now. With such a feel-good vibe on record and now on the road, fans can only hope that Chickenfoot gives up its day job.
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