
Red Hot Chili Peppers' legendary bass player Flea makes his case for a better world in A Plea - brought to life in a wonderful video by his daughter Clara Balzary.Musically this seven minute-plus track is only momentarily Chili Peppers-like. It's largely a freestyle jazz number with Flea providing a spoken word rap on the ominous state of society and the desperate need for greater tolerance, peace and love. And the video elevates the message by providing a platform for the unique charisma of the man himself.In short, Flea (who looks amazing, even iconic) gives a physical performance of energy and skill that puts the antics in numerous iconic RHCP videos in the shade - but it also might tempt you to revisit them. It starts with him executing a modern dance routine in a long unbroken take - mostly under the long instrumental opening of the track - before he moves through that dark space, engages with his reflection in a mirror, engages in Bowie-style mime movements, and heads outside - intercut with him in a rave with a group of young teenagers.Flea's heartfelt message, heard on the soundtrack, is entirely complemented by his determined vigour on-screen, a visual represention of the open-heartedness that also feels very authentic. It's a brave statement and a big video for a man who has worked within the relative comfort of a band for decades, and the execution led by Balzary - a renowned fashion photographer as well as director - is superb. This family affair is a real triumph.
David Knight - 7 days ago


