A reunited Jane’s Addiction evokes the sound and spirit of ‘the eternal L.A.’ at YouTube Theater

Swigging red wine out of a bottle and looking like a hipster Joshua Tree version of Indiana Jones, Jane’s Addiction frontman Perry Farrell surveyed the sold-out crowd Tuesday night at the YouTube Theater. Jane’s Addiction at YouTube Theater In 14 songs and 90 minutes, the lineup tore through a wide variety of mostly well-chosen material, including one new track, the raw, lilting, groove-heavy “Imminent Redemption.” Kicking off the show with 1997’s “Kettle Whistle” was slightly odd: the long, slow-burn track was played on record by Red Hot Chili Peppers’ bassist Flea, but the selection still set the vibe and tone for a dynamic set where Avery’s propulsive bass was often the backbone of the groove. Bearded and black-hatted, styled not unlike Clint Eastwood in “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” the dramatic but quietly compelling guitarist shone on scorching solos, his metal bona fides evident on “Pigs in Zen,” his iconic fretwork shining in the epic “Three Days.” He was equally compelling on acoustic guitar for Jane’s trademark lyrically and musically poignant true tale “Jane Says,” backed by bongos and steel drums. Jane’s Addiction bassist Eric Avery Jane’s biggest hit, the colorful, perfection of the impossible-to-ignore “Been Caught Stealing,” first arrived in 1990 with a video as creative and unhinged as the song.