Inside Of Emptiness (Record Collection/Warner)
It’s the fourth record in four months and Mr. Happy seems to be showing no signs of letting up any time soon.
Inside Of Emptiness continues John Frusciante’s basic approach of stark “I’m climbing out of the darkness but I’m still really messed up” songs blasted out by his two man party system, himself and drummer/handyman Josh Klinghoffer. Klinghoffer once again proves to be a great asset when it comes to constructing Frusicante’s tracks, pulling off some snazzy percussive bits you wouldn’t expect from material that’s so anguish based. Musically, the duo seem to lie somewhere between ‘90s grunge and this decade’s garage (the opening cuts recall The White Stripes or Hives), yet with nods to those who came before them, especially Neil Young (most noticeable on “I’m Around”).
An engaging selection of tunes for the brooder inside us all.