Jazz originated in New Orleans during the late 19th and early 20th centuries within African-American communities. Built on improvisation, rhythm, feel, and constant evolution, it’s an art form that perfectly captures all of Flea’s musical talents.

If you’ve followed Flea’s career with Red Hot Chili Peppers, you already know his first instrument was the trumpet and that jazz has always been one of his biggest influences. So the release of his debut jazz album, Honora, on March 27, 2026, felt less like a surprise and more like something that was always meant to happen.

The sold-out show at The Opera House on May 10, 2026, drew a noticeably older crowd, all there to fully take in the experience.

With no opening act, Flea walked onstage alone, opening the night with a bass solo while dressed in a modern silver-threaded suit paired with Nike sneakers — classic funk, classic Flea style.
Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect, and judging by conversations with fans after the show, neither did they.

Although the album features collaborations with Thom Yorke and Nick Cave, those vocal parts remained instrumental during the live performance, accompanied instead by stunning visual projections that brought each piece to life.

Whether Flea was playing bass, trumpet, or delivering spoken-word vocals, the full backdrop visuals completely immersed you in the music.

This wasn’t a high-energy show — it was the kind of night where you sit back, relax, and let the music take you somewhere.

And this band is far more than a side project. It’s a true reflection of Flea’s deep artistic love for music.

From the carefully curated lineup — Anna Butterss on bass, Jeff Parker on guitar, Josh Johnson on keyboards and saxophone, and Deantoni Parks on drums — combined with Flea’s unique bass and trumpet playing, plus his unmistakable stage presence and dance moves, the entire performance felt like a blend of jazz, performance art, and pure musical expression.

To end a perfect night, Flea gave us an emotional encore with “Lovelovelove,” a song dedicated to everyone who has experienced loss. He shared with the crowd that he himself was in the midst of losing someone, making the performance feel even more heartfelt and personal.

Flea and the Honora Band - Toronto - The Opera House - May 9, 2026 (Photos/Videos/Concert Review)

📃Setlist
1. Good Night Darius
2. Traffic Lights
3. Shred of Hope
4. Wichita Lineman (Jimmy Webb cover)
5. Frailed
6. Golden Wingship
7. A Plea
8. Free as I Want to Be
9. Thinkin Bout You (Frank Ocean cover)
10. Maggot Brain (Funkadelic cover)
11. Encore: Lovelovelove

Thank you Live Nation.

🎸 Flea and Honora Band
🌎 Flea and Honora Band Tour - 2026
📅 May 10, 2026
📍The Opera House, Toronto ON Canada

Flea and Honora Band are:
🎸🎺 Flea - Bass, Trumpet
🎸 Anna Butterss - Bass
🎸 Jeff Parker - Guitar
🎹🎷 Josh Johnson - keyboards and saxophone
🥁 Deantoni Parks - Drums

What is jazz music?