Best Red Hot Chili Peppers vinyl records

Start with Californication — the album most people want on vinyl, and the red/blue pressing is the one to grab if you like the look of it. It's their biggest-sounding record and the songs hold up front to back.

Then, by what you're after:

• Blood Sugar Sex Magik — the raw, funk-heavy classic; pick this if you want the band at their loosest.
• By the Way — the melodic, layered one; best for headphones and quiet listening.
• Stadium Arcadium — the sprawling double album; the 20th-anniversary 4LP is for completists.
• Unlimited Love — the John Frusciante reunion record; the deluxe gatefold with poster is the nicer package.

If you only buy one, Californication. If you're building a shelf, Californication plus Blood Sugar Sex Magik covers both sides of the band.