Why Can't We Be Friends?

Despite their confrontational name and pedigree as the onetime backing band for former Animals singer Eric Burdon, War pioneered Southern Californian funk and soul with their languid grooves, incomparable musicianship, and deceptively sunny vibes. Their most enduring and influential record blended heavy themes into light pop songs that reflected—and provided relief from—the social and political tumult of 1975, sketching the blueprint for Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fishbone, and fellow Long Beach natives Sublime. The infectious Latin funk jam “Low Rider” exemplifies the feel of Los Angeles in summer while the title track is ubiquitous and amiable enough to have inspired an obligatory Smash Mouth cover.