Interesting b-sides
Collin L | Los Angeles, California | 07/30/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Around the World is one of my personal favorite Chili Pepper song, released as the second single to the smash hit Californication and in two parts--this being part two.
It combines their rap and funk roots in the verse with a melodic and powerful chorus. The beginning is rough, and abrasive, pairing Flea's demanding slap-bass style of playing with John's funky and masterful guitar manipulation that generates an amazing and mind blowing intro lasting 30 seconds.
It is the two b-sides that I'm not so fond of. "Me and My Friends" is a song that has been played constantly at their live shows and is always the highlight. This one is no exception, proving to ooze energy and emotion in every note played, or every word sung.
"Yertle Trilogy" is more of a jam that has no significance to it, really. It's fun to listen to and hear the true talent the Chili's have, but not completely worth your while. This single is purely for collectors, as the b-sides aren't the most valuable ones the Chili's have released.
"
Not terribly exciting.
Michael Stack | North Chelmsford, MA USA | 09/28/2005
(2 out of 5 stars)
"The "Around the World" single appeared in two parts, each backed with a pair of b-sides. This is part 2.
The title track is a funky, driven piece, opening with a raging distorted bass run before blasting into an oddball, scratchy, funky verse. It's a decent tune, although it's on "Californication", so it's unlikely anyone would buy it for this.
The b-sides on part 2 are a pair of live tracks-- "Me and My Friends" and "Yertle Trilogy". It's certainly interesting to hear the band tackling a pair of later songs, but by and large neither are particularly exciting-- "Me and My Friends" comes off better live than it does even recorded live, and admittedly "Yertle Trilogy" is a lot of fun, but more goofy than anything else.
Invariably, collectors will want this, but more casual fans can skip this one."
Good live energy
freshmankelly | Marietta, Georgia United States | 07/08/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The live b-sides on this one are old school and flawless. Recorded during the first leg of their Californication tour you can tell that the band is glad to have John back and that he's glad to be back with them. "Yertle Trilogy" is great with parts of "Freaky Styley" thrown into the mix. "Me and My Friends" is very cool and throbbing with good vibe. If you want good live Peppers this one is for you."
Track Listings (3) - Disc #1