John Frusciante retreats from the harsh spotlight of fame to the warm glow of the lava lamp. 2004-2008 saw him contribute to the soundtrack of Vincent Gallo’s Brown Bunny, release six solo records, and record his chart-topping swan song with the Chili Peps. His 10th solo album The Empyrean was released in 2009, a psychedelic concept album about death and rebirth in the literal and abstract. The record features contributions from Johnny Marr (The Smiths) and former bandmates Flea and Josh Klinghoffer. Immediately gripping is his take on Jeff Buckley’s "Song Of The Siren", spookily flanged piano and studio-as-instrument atmosphere make it one of the better covers on this side of the Mortal Coil. “One More Of Me” showcases his voice, bassy and ragged alongside jaunty fiddle. “Central” is a Radiohead-esque damaged art-rock jam. This album was last issued on vinyl in 2013 and sold out immediately, so snag this fast. 

• 180g black double vinyl pressing
• newly remastered by John Frusciante and Bernie Grundman from the original analog tapes
• first vinyl pressing since 2013
• printed inner sleeves with lyrics and detailed credits
• digital download included
• music label: Record Collection 2019

reviewed by SIR PSYCO GUNDAM 05/2019