Anthym is a band that originated in Fairfax High School in California and would play numerous shows along the coast of California. Anthony Kiedis would introduce the band before they went on stage. Hillel Slovak and Jack Irons would later join The Red Hot Chili Peppers when the band did not work out. The band became known as What Is This? in 1980. Hillel Slovak (April 13, 1962 – June 25, 1988) was the original guitarist for the band Red Hot Chili Peppers. ... Jack Irons is a drummer who has played for the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Pearl Jam, but has since left both. ... Red Hot Chili Peppers (from left): Flea, Chad Smith, John Frusciante and Anthony Kiedis Red Hot Chili Peppers are a Californian rock band who have combined aspects of funk and hip-hop with rock and roll, pioneering funk metal. ... What Is This? (previously known as Anthym) were a rock band that were formed before and played around the same time as the Red Hot Chili Peppers. ...