The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ newest album, Unlimited Love, still has a classic Chili Peppers funk-rock sound, even 30 years after their debut album.

The band’s lineup for this album has lead singer Anthony Kiedis, bassist Flea, drummer Chad Smith and guitarist John Frusciante, who rejoined the band in 2019.

While not many of the lyric meanings go beyond the initial interpretations and the songs can be bland at times, Unlimited Love is still a great background listen.

The first single released for the album, “Black Summer,” is the best example of their classic sound. The song became the band’s 14th number one single when it reached the top of the alternative charts. The song blends Kiedis’s unique articulation with a catchy chorus, and slightly distorted guitar sound. 

The second song on the album, “Here Ever After,” closely resembles the band’s 1991 hit “Give It Away,” with rap-like fast parts, similar verse structure throughout the song, and a driving beat. However, also like “Give It Away,” the song gets very repetitive.

“These Are the Ways,” the second single released, seems more satirical than an actual song, and gives a Third Eye Blind band feel. The lyrics are not original, but Smith’s drumming and the light grunge sounds of both the guitar and bass make it an enjoyable listen.

Overall, the album is a good listen for fans wanting a classic Red Hot Chili Peppers sound.