Josh Klinghoffer, who was the lead guitarist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers for a decade, has voiced his opinion on the reception of albums recorded during his tenure with the band. He suggested that there is "a slight disrespect" towards the records made without the band's long-serving guitarist, John Frusciante.
Klinghoffer joined the iconic Californian rock band in 2009, taking over from Frusciante, who had departed the group for a second time. During his ten years with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Klinghoffer contributed to two studio albums: 'I'm With You' (2011) and 'The Getaway' (2016). Both albums achieved commercial success and critical acclaim, with 'I'm With You' reaching number one in the UK Albums Chart and 'The Getaway' peaking at number two.
The guitarist’s comments highlight a long-standing narrative among some fans and critics who often view the periods with Frusciante as the band's definitive era. Frusciante's distinctive guitar work and songwriting contributions were integral to some of the Red Hot Chili Peppers' most commercially successful and critically lauded albums, including 'Blood Sugar Sex Magik', 'Californication', and 'By The Way'.
Klinghoffer's departure from the band in 2019 made way for John Frusciante's return, marking his third stint with the group. Since Frusciante's return, the band has released two new albums, 'Unlimited Love' (2022) and 'Return of the Dream Canteen' (2022), both of which were well-received by fans and critics, and topped the UK charts. This continued success with Frusciante back in the fold may inadvertently reinforce the perception Klinghoffer described.
The Red Hot Chili Peppers have a significant fanbase in the UK, regularly selling out arena tours and headlining major festivals. Their music is widely available on streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, with their extensive back catalogue including the albums Klinghoffer contributed to. While the band has not received BAFTA or Brit Awards for specific albums, their consistent popularity and influence on rock music are undeniable, and they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012.
Klinghoffer's reflections offer insight into the internal and external pressures faced by musicians stepping into the shoes of iconic predecessors, particularly within bands with such a rich and storied history as the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Source: NME