John Frusciante has rejoined Red Hot Chili Peppers after a decade away from the band.
In a statement released last night, the band confirmed rumours of Frusciante's return, announcing guitarist Josh Klinghoffer's exit from the band also. "Josh is a beautiful musician who we respect and love," the band's statement read. "We are deeply grateful for our time with him, and the countless gifts he shared with us."
Frusciante's return after ten years isn't the first time he's parted ways with the band, however. In the '90s, Frusciante left the band mid-tour during the 'Blood Sugar Sex Magick' era, and was replaced with guitarist Dave Navarro. Frusciante came back six years later, joining them for 1999's 'Californication', 2002's 'By The Way', and 2006's 'Stadium Arcadium'. However, Frusciante then departed the band in 2009 and was replaced by Klinghoffer, who was the band's touring guitarist.
Klinghoffer appeared on two albums - 2011's 'I'm With You', and 2016's 'The Getaway' - however Frusciante appeared on stage with Flea and Anthony Kiedis at a benefit concert in 2016.
Needless to say, Frusciante's return to Red Hot Chili Peppers has sparked huge reaction online from thirtysomethings who remember the band in their heyday.
John Frusciante re-joining the chili peppers has made my whole fucking year, I actually can’t believe
— mikey (@yllieryekim) December 15, 2019
John Frusciante is the most important member of RHCP. (Full Stop) https://t.co/pzq2vmDfBd
— B Mo (@TheBMo) December 15, 2019
As it stands, only a handful of US tour dates have been confirmed for 2020, but seeing as how it's coming up on four years since they've recorded anything, don't be in the least bit surprised if there's a new album on the way.
In the meantime, here's a deep-cut track from the Frusciante era of Red Hot Chili Peppers.