KEY POINTS:
Thousands of fans queued for hours, sat glued to computer screens and redialled constantly to get tickets to this weekend's Chili Peppers concerts, but according to Australian media, you needn't have bothered.
The Sydney Morning Herald named the band the Red Cold Chilis after their concert at Acer Arena on Monday night.
Reviewer George Palathingal wrote: "The band's chemistry remains undeniably impressive. But the set's increased number of dirge-like ballads shows up Anthony Kiedis's limited vocal range.
"Everything is made more frustrating by the few highs: searing funk-rock opener Can't Stop; the chaotic punk of Me and My Friends; a sprightly Hump De Bump; and the euphoric rush of By the Way. The only other memorable moments come from cover versions."
Palathingal criticised the band's complacency as performers, before summing up: "All you need to know is that the Red Hot Chili Peppers evidently don't care about you any more. So maybe you shouldn't bother with them, either."
Those disappointed by the Sydney Morning Herald's review, will be relieved to know not everyone had such a low opinion of the band.
Jack Wehmen reviewed the Chili Peppers' final US tour date in March, writing for the Houston Chronicle.
He said: "The Chili Peppers were in perfect form, with Chad Smith, Anthony Kiedis, Flea and John Frusciante tearing up the stage like they were in their 20s again.
"The show started with a bang, and the Peppers kept it that way. The middle of the show contained the meat of the Stadium Arcadium hits - Hey and Snow come to mind - but they also took us back in time by dedicating Me and My Friends to tour mates (and opening act) Gnarls Barkley.
"However, the highlight of the entire night was the last few songs. Californication brought the house down, and By The Way sent every person over the edge; everyone was dancing and screaming to Kiedis' distinct vocals."
The Chilis are due to arrive in New Zealand this evening, ahead of tomorrow night's soldout show at Auckland's Vector Arena.
- NZHERALD STAFF
