Review: Chickenfoot

With a lead singer known as “The red rocker”, a guitarist  nick named “Satch mo”, a drummer who claims “I’m not Will Ferrell”, and a bassist that plays a bottle of whiskey, maybe the name Chickenfoot isn’t such a stretch. But don’t get me wrong their first album is all business. A solid debut for this latest “supergroup” (which Sammy Hagar claims they’re not) “We are not a supergroup, we like hanging out together and the music is a bonus”.

Joe Satriani of Chickenfoot

Produced by Andy Johns (Led Zep, The Stones) these 11 tracks have all the elements from the experience these four musicians have amassed playing rock music in very successful projects of their own. Joe Satriani’s foot prints (or should I say finger prints) are all over this album with the classic riffs of “Soap on a Rope” and “Oh Yeah” to the hard driving “Down the Drain” and “Turnin’ Left” along with the soft and tender “Learning to Fall”  all complimented by his tasty licks and technical leads. Satriani says “Being in a band makes me feel more comfortable. I can give more of myself to the music this way.”

I don’t know if he’s been reinvigorated by this project, or maybe Satriani has an affect on him but Michael Anthony’s bass work is really dynamic on this album. I don’t think I have ever heard him work so hard and sound so good. Michael’s  back-up and co-vocals with Sammy are on the money, especially on “Get it Up”.

Chad Smith of Chickenfoot

Drummer Chad Smith formerly of the Red Hot Chili Peppers has a great mix on this album, and with his funk influences he has all the chops and fills to create a powerful rock solid foundation that completes a very tight rhythm section.

Sammy Hagar (who is now 61) can still bring it on vocals. He was pushed hard in the studio by Johns and it shows. Hagar’s lyrics from the topical song  “Avenida Revolution” about the drug wars south of the border are close to his heart, it’s a place he frequents regularly. Other songs include the catchy and infectious  “My Kind of Girl” and “Sexy Little Thing”. Sammy’s vocals, a little worn from years of going all out, still sound youthful yet matured.

Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony

“Man I never thought I’d be going at it this long” says Hagar, “Gotta love the foot”. I know this reviewer does. 4 out of 5 stars in my book. Chickenfoot is out on tour for the summer of 2009.

Favorite Track: Turnin’ Left

The album was released June 5th, 2009 and debuted at #1 on Billboard Indie and #4 on Billboard Album.

Track Listings