This week, Phoenix is buzzing with excitement as Jane’s Addiction returns to the city alongside Love & Rockets. The event marks a significant moment for fans, not only because of the classic lineup’s reunion but also due to the release of new music. Could this signal a comeback for one of rock’s most polarizing bands?
When Eric Avery rejoined Jane’s Addiction in 2022, it was met with widespread enthusiasm. Despite Chris Chaney’s commendable work as the band’s bassist during Avery’s absence, there was a notable difference in the band’s sound. Avery’s powerful bass lines, integral to the band’s early success, were sorely missed. Chaney’s performance was solid, but he did not bring the same energy that Avery’s presence did.
The band’s recent single, “Imminent Redemption,” has stirred nostalgia among longtime fans with its echoes of the band’s late ’80s and early ’90s hits, such as “Nothing’s Shocking” (1988) and “Ritual de lo Habitual” (1990). The track features a compelling bass line that recalls the band’s earlier sound, providing a refreshing experience for enthusiasts. For Avery, this represents a rejuvenation of the band’s essence.
“Having spent much of my recent career as a hired musician with other bands, like Alanis Morissette and Garbage, coming back to Jane’s Addiction feels like returning to my musical soul,” Avery explained. He recounted the recording process for “Imminent Redemption,” noting that initial sessions were just with Perry Farrell and Stephen Perkins while Dave Navarro was recovering from long COVID. Avery was moved by the spontaneous collaboration and the rekindled energy among the members.
In our discussion, Avery reflected on the evolution of the band and their individual growth. “In the past, we were in somewhat separate orbits. Dave was the standout musician, while Perry and I had a more basic, tribal approach. Now, Dave is more engaged and interested in the band’s musical direction, frequently discussing gear and techniques,” Avery noted. This new dynamic is a stark contrast to their earlier years and could be a promising sign for the band’s future.
Avery also acknowledged the band’s longstanding connection with their fans and their own sense of accomplishment. “We’ve come to appreciate the rarity and significance of what we do, especially given the continued interest in our work. It’s more meaningful now than ever before,” he said.
The current tour with Love & Rockets is also symbolic, echoing their early days. In 1989, following a pair of sold-out shows in Phoenix, Jane’s Addiction joined Love & Rockets on the East Coast for their Earth-Sun-Moon tour, marking a notable point in their early career.
During our conversation, Avery touched on the influences that shaped Jane’s Addiction’s sound. “Perry and I were heavily inspired by Velvet Underground and Joy Division. We wanted to capture their essence without imitating them directly,” he revealed. Although over three decades have passed since their debut, Jane’s Addiction’s sound has evolved significantly, diverging from their early influences.
Avery humorously recalled a time when he saw similarities between Jane’s Addiction and The Three O’Clock, albeit under the influence of the Paisley Underground scene. “I was a fan of The Salvation Army, which later became The Three O’Clock,” Avery shared.
Arizona has been a significant place for Jane’s Addiction, although their early experiences there were not always positive. Avery reminisced about their struggles during a show with Tucson’s Caterwaul, which was attended by a sparse crowd. “We were fans of Cocteau Twins, and there was an overlap with Caterwaul. We played to a nearly empty venue and had a rough time with the promoter,” he said.
Jane’s Addiction and Love & Rockets will perform at the Arizona Federal Theatre on Thursday, August 15, at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $53. Fans can look forward to an evening of classic hits and new material, as two influential bands come together once again.
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