Chickenfoot Chickenfoot
by Edwin van Hoof
Staff Writer
Let’s blend the most talented and financially independent musicians of modern rock music together, throw them in a studio with some of that delicious Cabo Wabo tequila, and shake it up. You will get Chickenfoot!
“People of the Foot” Sammy roared upon his pages while Chad Smith did the chickenwalk. Funny as it was corny. An upbeat towards what might be called the biggest surprise in rock history. Because whether you like it or not, Chickenfoot delivers one of rock finest showcases of craftsmanship known to rock music. Inspiring and driven, the music is propelled by top notch playing of the gifted quartet.
Chad Smith lays down his signature drums shuffles and percussion work which is boosted by the power slides of Mike Anthony’s bass playing, providing the backbone of the band’s excess. A foundation which is outlined and underlined by the amazing and jawdropping guitar playing of Joe Satriani. Wizard-ous soloing and raw stringbending and pulling from the master who makes way for another heavy weight in the genre; Sammy Hagar! Much like on Van Halen’s F.U.C.K., Hagar uplifts the Foot with his typical howls and roars. Loud vocals, raw and powerful over an almost eclectic melodic rock sound. Divided we land, united we stand!
Remember Soul Sirkus’s “Peephole,” which was written and composed by Hagar and set the album ablaze? Well, there’s a lot more like it on this collection of songs. The opening track “Avenida Revolution” is an upbeat towards the energy outburst of “Soap on a Rope”, which is explosive and pompous. Driven by the roaring bass line of Anthony and boosted by a forceful driven riff from Satch, the song is pulled further forward by vocal interaction between the former VH partners.
“Oh Yeah” is the band’s first single output, where there could have been others. “Sexy Little Thing” for instance which bears reminiscence to the successful 5150 days, or the more mainstream “Runnin’ Out” propelled by some slick melody playing of Satriani, keenly arranged, balancing between the band’s back catalogue and blues inflicted classic rock. Fitting the same feed is the myspace classic’ “All Down the Drain” with trademark Satriani soloing. The ultimate combination of Hagar’s accessible rock sound and the spicy RHCP-ingredients are the funky rocking “Get It Up” and “Turnin’ Left.” Diversity is plenty to be discovered. Especially when the band explores classic rock again. “My Kinda Girl” with its acoustic guitar section and close harmony chorus. Amazing!
Another ultimate highlight is the gorgeous rock ballad “Learning to Fall” which is far from tacky. Towering vocals and guitars creating sheer magic. “Future in the Past” closes the album in style. Starting off acoustic to burst into funk near the mid section. Bombastic and powerful, in your face.
Chickenfoot is referred to as a prestigious project from the top of Rock’s players, bored to shreds. Labeling the Foot as such, we go by on one of the best releases of the year. This debut is simply amazing. Unmistakable qualities lined up perfectly with excellent rock tunes. Inspired, honest and in your face! A must have for fans of rock with a bite and panache!
Label: Ear Music/Edel
Tracklist:
Avenida Revolucion
Soap on a Rope
Sexy Little Thing
Oh Yeah
Runnin’ Out
Get It Up
Down the Drain
My Kinda Girl
Learning to Fall
Turning Left
Future in the Past
Line-up:
• Sammy Hagar – Vocals, guitars
• Joe Satriani – Lead Guitar
• Michael Anthony – Bass, backing vocals
• Chad Smith – Drums, percussions
Site: Chickenfoot Official
HRH rating: 9.8/10