Local Fans Pay Tribute to the Red Hot Chili Peppers in Lansing

The LSJ heads to Lansing Mall Cinemas for the Red Hot Chili Peppers movie

The Red Hot Chili Peppers brought the live concert presentation of their just-released album, “I’m With You,” to select theaters throughout the world Tuesday (Aug. 30). Peppers fans crowded the Lansing Mall Cinemas and Celebration Cinemas to experience the legendary Los Angeles alternative rock band live, in their element.

Even frontman Anthony Kiedis’ mom got into the action. At the Lansing Mall Cinemas, the manager passed out colorful Red Hot Chili Peppers buttons (left), which Kiedis’ mom, who lives in Grand Rapids, made and sent to the local theater just for the special occasion.

Emily Matthews, 22, from Kalamazoo and Sidney Lipsey, 13, of Charlotte traveled to the Lansing Mall Cinemas just to see one of their favorite bands perform the new tracks.

“I think they sound different than everyone else, and they keep trying new things every year,” Matthews said.

“I really like Flea,” added Lipsey, “and Anthony has a unique voice.”

What motivated the two to travel to Lansing for the show?

“Hearing the new album,” Lipsey said, as Matthews added that they both bought the album that day, but made a pack not to listen to it until after seeing the live concert performance.

As for the performance, if there was any doubt the Los Angeles alternative rock band still has it, that uncertainty is gone. Energy, charisma and spontaneity fueled the 90-minute set. New guitarist Josh Klinghoffer added vivacity, a fluid guitar delivery and falsetto vocals to the Peppers’ classic funk-rock sound. They capped off the night of new songs with a tried-and-true one: “Give It Away.”

The Red Hot Chili Peppers' performance repeats 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1, at Lansing Mall Cinemas and Celebration Cinemas.