John Frusciante leaves Red Hot Chili Peppers (?)

Sad news if true of course, as since John returned in 1999 for Californication the Chili’s output has been overall outstanding, with his classical and electronic influences often sneaking in.

But having seen the bands final show with John in August 2007, it feels like maybe this is for the best. It was insincere to say the least, and it’ll be sad if we have to remember what has been a tight live band overall for the last drags of the £2 million a show Stadium Arcadium tour.

Still, Frusciante has been making some excellent solo albums since 2003 and hopefully this’ll free up some time for him to make more. If you’re wondering where to start, I suggest 2004’s Shadows Collide With People and The Will To Death (Review here) or The Empyrean.

Greg