Grade: A

It’s been five years, but the boys of California have finally returned with their classic sound and a new guitarist for their 10th studio album.

After the commercial and critically acclaimed success of The Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Stadium Arcadium,” it was going to be pretty difficult to top it, especially after winning five Grammy Awards, including Best Rock Album.

But alas the Chili Peppers have put together a great new album that’s fun to listen to, and that says a lot about where the band is today.

“Stadium Arcadium” featured 28 mellow songs, more meaningful to the band compared to what they’ve produced in the past. “I’m With You,” on the other hand, is a fresh take from the Chili Peppers that keeps you coming back for more. After listening to it all the way through about six times, you notice that only two or three songs of the fourteen track list are not “upbeat” songs. The band has taken a new approach to their music, and they had a lot of fun making this album.

The best part about “I’m With You” are the performances by lead bass player Michael “Flea” Balzary. Flea is considered to be one of the best bass players of all time, and his skills truly show here. The bass riffs in songs like “The Adventures Of Rain Dance Maggie” and “Factory of Faith” are some of the most intoxicating musical stylings I’ve ever heard. I consider myself a pretty avid RHCPs fan and never have I heard bass cords from him in a way that define the songs so well.

“I’m With You” is a fantastic album, and any Red Hot Chili Pepper’s fan shouldn’t hesitate in picking it up. However, if you are just looking for a couple great iTunes tracks to download, I highly recommend “The Adventures Of Rain Dance Maggie” and “Did I Let You Know.”

Think differently? Give us your thoughts in the comments section below.