The Centre Of Everything: John Frusciante's Favourite Electronic Music | Page 3 of 14 | The Quietus

Baker's Dozen

Artists discuss the 13 records that shaped their lives

2. The Human LeagueReproduction

I also got this when we were writing Californication. However much money I had in my pocket when I left rehearsal, I would stop at Vinyl Fetish and buy UK imports of synth-pop records, trip-hop, and whatever electronic music I was starting to find out about. I knew the Human League was one of the reputable names, and I remember coming home with Reproduction and Travelogue. The second I started listening I just knew. I guess I was looking for the punk equivalent of synth-pop or something.

I have a lot of memories associated with the Human League, especially by the time Red Hot Chili Peppers were writing the second album after I re-joined, By The Way. I would blast Reproduction to and from rehearsal every day. The band’s tour manager for the last 20 years was my driver back then. I don’t think it was exactly his thing but he still remembers it. I recall Martin Ware from the Human League wanting to come to a show of ours in Italy and I was so excited. I asked our tour manager, ‘Remember when you used to drive me around listening to the Human League?’ and he was like, ‘Oh yeah, I remember.’ I’ve benefited a lot as a human being by having all those lyrics memorised for all these years.

PreviousNext Selection

Don’t Miss The Quietus Digest

Start each weekend with our free email newsletter.

Help tQ Survive & Thrive

Without our subscribers, all this would simply fall into the cultural abyss. Please take a moment to explore our membership tiers and rewards + don’t miss our free 30-day trial offer for new subs.

Try For Free