Does Flea's restrained bass work on Honora feel like artistic growth or does something get lost without his signature ferocity?

I'm not a huge RHCP fan so don't know if I have a great basis for comparison. I do think that his more traditional approach to playing allows him to spotlight his phrasing in a way I haven't heard before. More than just melodies, some of this bass parts sound like he's singing. Just beautiful work.