RHCP were interviewed in an article about their up coming UK tour dates; the magazine came out on the 10th November 2011 but my copy only came today. Here’s an extract:

The reunited Chilis have spent a year writing 50 new songs. But one major part of the band was missing. Guitarist John Frusciante, a driving force behind their biggest hits, quit the band in 2009 for a second time albeit amicably on this occasion.

“It felt good because I knew he would be happier doing something else,” Kiedis smiles. “We had accomplished so much with John, something we will live and die being very proud of.”

New member Josh Klinghoffer has slotted straight into the band. At the age of 32 he already has an enviable CV.

He was a friend and collaborator with Frusciante and has worked with the likes of Gnarls Barkley, Warpaint and PJ Harvey. Kiedis says Klinghoffer has added something fresh. “Josh walked through the door with a sense of self,” he continues.

“Within a couple of weeks he started showing us some of his ideas and we thought these are really beautiful and we can build on them and make it happen.” Smith was delighted to see a reinvigorated Flea return after learning to play the piano.

“He got really inspired by furthering his knowledge of music,” says Chad. “He went to college for a year and he really dedicated himself to music theory.

“I had to come in with some new things on the drums and we all went up on it. It was real fun again.”

Full scans and transcript here: Red Hot Chili Peppers Interview The Ticket