John Frusciante has confirmed he's quit the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and that attempts to bring him back into the fold have failed because he's no longer interested in the band.

They reconvened in October after a year's break became a two-year break, to begin work on a new album. At the time drummer Chad Smith said he was confident Frusciante would return, depite the guitarist's comments that he felt he had no more to achieve in the outfit.

Now Frusciante, who quit once before but later returned, has confirmed what a band source revealed earlier this week: he's definitely out. And as far as he's concerned, he left in 2008.

He says: "When I quit over a year ago we were on an indefinite hiatus. There was no drama or anger involved and the other guys were very understanding. They're supportive of my doing whatever makes me happy - and that goes both ways.

"To put it simply, my musical interested have led me in a different direction.

"Upon rejoining, and throughout my time in the band, I was very excited about exploring the musician possibilities in a rock band, and doing so with those people in particular.

"A couple of years ago I began to feel that excitement again - but this time it was about making a different kind of music, alone.

"I really love the band and what we did. I understand and value that my work with them means a lot to many people. But I have to follow my interests.

"Over the past 12 years I've changed as a person and artist. To do further work along the lines I did with the band would be to go against my own nature. There was no choice involved in this decision - I have to be what I am and have to do what I must.

"My love and gratitude to you all."

It's believed the Chili Peps have already started working on their new album with Josh Klinghoffer as replacement guitarist, although it's not clear if the arrangement is permanent.