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Although he's been in and out of the band due to his drug problems, and was a latecomer anyway, John Frusciante has frequently been at the heart of most that is interesting about the Red Hot Chili Peppers. His latest solo outing is full of surprising songs with some cracking tunes that step far outside the punk-funk-grunge-metal formula of the Chili Peppers. "Song To Sing When I'm Lonely" sounds more like R.E.M., "Regret" could be a Coldplay B-side, and "Wednesday's Song" has a touch of Stephen Malkmus. He can't decide if he's a sonic terrorist or a wistful troubadour, and he's not much of a singer, which he vainly attempts to disguise with a range of studio effects. But despite such limitations, people win out over the shadows on a surprisingly likeable collection.

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User reviewsSubmit your reviewAverage user rating5 stars
Craig Branson
South Yorkshire
 
A passionate exploration that will change your life

Don't be put off by the poor Uncut review, 3 stars doesn't do this album any justice at all. I can only imagine that the reviewer didn't spend enough time listening to it.

A collection of songs with varying styles, songs of gorgeous harmonies drive by the guitar of a genius, thought provoking through to an instant fix of punky rock.
To criticise JF's voice is missing the point, the fragile, sometimes broken nature of his voice gives the songs character and intimacy, something he doesn't hide from. JF is only comparable to Hendrix, not in style as he is not an impersonator but in passion for the guitar and his music. Constantly creating and expanding his own horizons he lives and breathes to create.You won't find lyrics about his bedroom prowess or his ability to drink beer in vast quanities, so if that's what you're looking for you won't find it here. 'Shadows...' stands alongside 'Curtains' as his best. Don't let this album pass you by, you will be surprised!