Album of the Day

The Red Hot Chili Peppers made a strong return to form with 1999's CALIFORNICATION, an album that marked the return of prodigal son John Frusciante, who had left the band after the triumph of BLOOD SUGAR SEX MAGIK for a solo career – and a dalliance with drugs that nearly killed him. The guitarist isn't the only one who sounds rejuvenated here; vocalist Anthony Kiedis sings better than ever on these 15 originals, and bassist Flea and drummer Chad Smith drive the band forward with grooves worthy of one of rock's greatest rhythm sections. Introspective songs like “Scar Tissue” and the title track show a new maturity to the Chili Peppers' songwriting, though the quartet delivers more raucous material like “Around The World” and “Otherside” just as effectively; producer Rick Rubin keeps these sides of the band in perfect balance throughout the album. This is Flea's birthday, and we'll celebrate it with the multi-platinum CALIFORNICATION.