Watching the Red Hot Chili Peppers at the Gorge Amphitheater, May 31st, 2024, was nothing short of a concert-goer’s bucket list experience. The Gorge, nestled up against the Columbia River, always offers a sunset-backed and stunning natural amphitheater that rivals Red Rocks, amongst others, for the most beautiful natural scenery a music venue can offer. And on top of that, the show was right at the beginning of summer, before the onset of the raging mid-day heat of central Washington… Chef’s kiss! The sweeping views of the river and cliffs combined with the music was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Unlike many bands that have been touring as early as the late 80’s or early 90’s, the ‘Chili Peppers, in their 60’s, still have a vibrance and stage presence of people half their age. On this night, like most of their tour, they kicked off their set with a jam session leading into their main tracks. The stage production was impressive with massive semi-transparent flowing LED walls that backed the band, changing with the mood and tone of each song. The show was reminiscent of the time I saw them in August of 2000 in Denver, with the four current members that many know the definitive ‘Chili Peppers to be. This time, though, they thankfully wore more clothing and fewer tube socks on their… well, you get it. Don’t ask me to choose which show was my favorite, because I couldn’t possibly pick one!
The setlist was a parade of some new tracks but a lot of their greatest hits, “Can’t Stop,” “Californication,” “Scar Tissue,” “Under the Bridge”, and each song had the amphitheater lit up, dancing, singing along, and… smoking along. And spoiler alert! They capped the night with “Give It Away”. Overall, they perform a pretty high energy show, and it’s definitely one that will keep you on your feet. If I had to summarize the night in just a few words… I’d tell you it was a blend of seemingly timeless energy, top tier musicianship, and an all around incredible production.
Every member of this band brings an insane amount of talent, there is no doubt about it. But in particular, if you haven’t seen Chad Smith’s work with Drumeo, definitely take the time to check out his work with their team here. If you’re a fan of 30 Seconds To Mars, you’ll particularly enjoy this peek behind the curtain of the RHCP’s drum talent:
During a recent 2024 interview, Chad Smith said that the band will be taking time off after the 2024 tour, with no plans to tour in 2025. This tour break, in an effort to start writing music for their next album. Catch them while you can!
Find the Red Hot Chili Peppers most recent 2022 albums “Unlimited Love” and “Return of the Dream Canteen” on all major streaming services.
Thanks for reading. – Aaron
Support: Ken Carson
Anthony Kiedis – lead vocals (1982–present)
Flea (Michael Balzary) – bass, backing vocals (1982–present)
Chad Smith – drums (1988–present)
John Frusciante – guitar, backing vocals (1988–present)
Stay tuned to Stereofade for more reviews, and check out our review of Noah Kahan’s concert in Nashville.
