Josh Klinghoffer has described a slight disrespect toward Red Hot Chili Peppers albums recorded without John Frusciante. The guitarist made the comments in a new interview with Guitar World. He reflected on fan reception of his own contributions to the band.
Klinghoffer joined Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2011 after Frusciante left and recorded the albums I'm with You and The Getaway. Frusciante returned to the band in 2019. Klinghoffer said that once Frusciante rejoined, it felt as if the other records no longer existed. He added that records like One Hot Minute and his own work with the band were important at the time because the group toured them worldwide. Klinghoffer called Frusciante a strong presence and the preeminent guitarist who helped the band achieve global fame. Klinghoffer also addressed earlier comments he made on a Brazilian podcast where he suggested the band was doing cooler music during his tenure. He clarified that he does not keep up with their recent output much beyond listening to Unlimited Love and Return of the Dream Canteen once when they first came out.