Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea has commented on the recently-announced return of guitarist John Frusciante and the departure of Josh Klinghoffer from the fold.

In one of the biggest news stories of 2019, John Frusciante rejoined the Red Hot Chili Peppers after leaving for the second time in 2009. During his ten year departure from the band, Josh Klinghoffer performed on the band’s two latest albums, 2011’s I’m With You and 2016’s The Getaway.

When a fan wrote to Flea on Twitter that he “loved the two records with Josh! They were great! Happy to hear John is back though,” the bassist thanked him and added:

“I love the records with Josh too. Josh is amazing. And a beautiful man too. And yes John is back. Nature moves and waves are for riding.”

After another fan wrote about Klinghoffer, “I hope he knows we all love him very much and we’re thankful for 10 years of magic and wonderment,” Flea replied:

“I know he feels it. We as a band feel the same way.”

In case you missed it, yes, John Frusciante is returning to the RHCP. Here’s what we said on that news story on the day it was first announced: You can read the full story here.

Taking to Instagram this morning, the Red Hot Chili Peppers revealed that there’s set to be a lineup shift, with Josh Klinghoffer set to depart the band.

“The Red Hot Chili Peppers announce that we are parting ways with our guitarist of the past ten years, Josh Klinghoffer,” they explained. “Josh is a beautiful musician who we respect and love.

“We are deeply grateful for our time with him, and the countless gifts he shared with us.”

However, they weren’t quite done yet, announcing the return of a prodigal son along the way.

“We also announce, with great excitement and full hearts, that John Frusciante is rejoining our group.”

Josh Klinghoffer’s presence with the group resulted in the recording of two studio albums, 2011’s I’m With You and 2016’s The Getaway, and saw him become the youngest-ever living inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

In recent months though, Klinghoffer revealed yet another new project as he continued to tour and perform with the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Listen to ‘Under the Bridge’ below.

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