Album Review: John Frusciante, Maya

In yet another unexpected twist of 2020, John Frusciante has released an instrumental electronic album, named after his recently deceased cat. Drawing influence from the golden age of UK breakbeat hardcore and jungle, of the early ‘90s, the experimental sensibilities that have always marked the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ guitarist as a captivatingly original artist continue to shine through on Maya.

In the past, Frusciante has ventured into electronic music under the alias Trickfinger – releasing the album She Smiles Because She Presses The Button, just a few months ago. The decision to begin releasing under his own name boils down to his close bond with his cat. “She loved music,” he said, “and with such a personal title, it didn’t seem right to call myself Trickfinger.”

Frusicante – whose own personal struggles were among the factors behind his decision to step away from the biggest rock band in the world on more than one occasion – has often channelled his pain into unexpected sounds and directions. His work on Maya continues a trend of constant reinvention. And, for a project named after a dead cat, it’s a surprisingly joyful affair.