Last night, Jane’s Addiction kicked off their tour with an intimate, electrifying performance at London’s iconic Bush Hall, marking the first time in over 14 years that the classic lineup played together. With a capacity of just 400, the venue was packed to the rafters, creating a sense of exclusivity and anticipation that filled the air. Tickets were nearly impossible to get, making this an extraordinary event for those fortunate enough to shuffle through the door of this more than one-hundred-year-old dance hall.
The classic lineup of Perry Farrell, Dave Navarro, Eric Avery, and Stephen Perkins brought undeniable star power to the stage. Each member showcased their talents while melding together seamlessly to deliver a nostalgic and forward-thinking performance. It was a night that evoked the spirit of the ’90s, a decade where Jane’s Addiction helped shape the alternative rock landscape with their raw and eclectic sound.
Jane’s Addiction’s early days were marked by explosive energy and boundary-pushing performances that helped define the alternative rock movement. Their shows were chaotic, vibrant, and unpredictable, with each member contributing to the wild, rebellious spirit that set them apart from their contemporaries. Last night, that spirit was very much alive, but it was clear that the band had evolved. Their performances are now polished yet powerful, seamlessly blending their classic hits with a matured, sophisticated sound that continues to captivate.
Perry Farrell embodied the essence of sophistication, juxtaposing his early days of psychedelic flair and rebellious energy with a more refined, eclectic style. His stage presence remains magnetic, effortlessly commanding the audience’s attention. Still distinctive and assertive, Farrell’s voice highlighted his growth as a multifaceted artist. He is a master showman, weaving the old with the new and entrancing the audience throughout the set.
Dave Navarro, the essence of cool, wowed with his distinctive guitar work. His instrument’s sheer range of sounds was astonishing, creating the illusion of an entire army of musicians on stage. Navarro’s mystique and style added a layer of depth to the performance, making it clear why he remains a pivotal figure in the band. His wah paddle flailing solos transported the audience back to the glory days of the ’90s when his riffs became the anthems of a generation.
Behind the drums, Stephen Perkins delivered a performance akin to the final five minutes of the most incredible UFC fight in history. His intense, war-like approach to drumming was a sight to behold. It was like watching a seasoned fighter in his prime, delivering blow after blow with precision and passion. Perkins locked eyes with his fellow band members several times throughout each song, demonstrating a deep connection and synchronization that captured the band’s early magic while reinforcing the fact that they love what they do.
Eric Avery’s return to the bass reminded everyone how critical his instrument is to the band’s dynamic. Tight, loud, and in your face, Avery’s playing was particularly impactful during “Been Caught Stealing,“ rumbling through the small room with a force that belied its size. His performance underscored the unique chemistry and power of the classic lineup, bringing a sense of completeness to the band’s sound that had been missing in his absence.
The setlist clocked in just over an hour and was a perfect blend of new and old, including five songs from Ritual de lo Habitual, three from Nothing’s Shocking, two new tracks, and “Whores” from their self-titled album. They opened the night with “Kettle Whistle,“ performed with Dave Navarro for the first time since 2001. The live debut of “Imminent Redemption“ and the performance of “True Love,“ their first new song in over a decade, showcased the band’s ability to innovate while staying true to their roots.
From the frenetic energy of “Stop!“ to the sprawling epic “Three Days,“ the band took the audience through their storied career. Each song reminded the audience why Jane’s Addiction remains one of the most influential bands of the alternative rock era. Their ability to blend the intensity of their early days with the polish and maturity of their current sound is a testament to their enduring legacy.
As the final notes of “Three Days“ echoed through Bush Hall, it was clear that Jane’s Addiction had rekindled the magic of their past and paved the way for an exciting future. The intimate setting, combined with the raw talent and chemistry of the classic lineup, created an unforgettable experience that left the audience in awe. It was a night of reliving the glory days of the ’90s, with one of the bands that defined the era proving they are still at the top of their game. The big question on everyone’s mind: when’s the new album coming out? The new material sounds incredible live, and there’s got to be more where that came from.
