The Frequency

Since 1967 the word ‘Necessities’ is inseparable from the word ‘Bear’. When a bear actually appears on the cover for The Getaway, together with the song title “Dark Necessitates”, it is hard to think the guys from Red Hot Chili Peppers were not inspired by The Jungle Book. However, this might not be the case, considering that the recordings for this album started way before this Disney classic was revived. Whatever the source for inspiration may be, it is time to check if the peppers got the bare necessities to make their eleventh album a successful one.

Just like Mowgli in the well-known story, this four piece left their trusted wolf pack to find guidance from a new wise help: producer Rick Rubin, who has been involved with the band since Blood Sugar Sex Magik (1991), was left behind, after which Kiedis and co. found their Bagheera in producer Brian Burton a.k.a. Danger Mouse. This new collaboration results in a refreshing, crystal clear record, varying from the adventurous and groovy “Goodbye Angels” and “We Turn Red” to the slow and dragging “The Longest Wave”.

Furthermore, all usual Peppers-elements are included: Anthony Kiedis’ rap-like singing, complete with tight eh-oh’s, Flea’s eternal slap-bass and always catchy bass lines, and lyrical references to the late Hillel Slovak and home base California. To finish it off, guitarist Josh Klinghoffer’s input increases in value. Making his RHCP album debut on predecessor I’m with You, on The Getaway he proves to not be afraid of cutting corners with sharp riffs and grand solo’s.

Highlights, in addition to lead single “Dark Necessities”, include the disco-filled “Go Robot” and heavily rocking “This Ticonderoga”. Especially the latter can be seen as the sensational equivalent to King Louie and his army of apes. Large slip-up, however, is the lack of an actual climax with fire, tigers and different types of danger. This is largely due to the build-up of the track list; when the record gains in speed and energy, songs like the somewhat boring “Encore” come in to return the calm, in the process creating missed opportunities.

The energetic bass and guitar solos provide the funky Baloo-attitude that was hoped for, but apart from those moments The Getaway frankly offers fewer entertainment and excitement than expected. Pretty much like the ending of the original cartoon version of The Jungle Book: instead of embracing the adventures the jungle can offer, the four piece goes with the safer, least interesting option and have Danger Mouse guild them to civilization.