 The album 's guitar and bass ensemble was primarily dictated by Frusciante , rather than a collaborative effort between him and bassist Flea . Therefore , the record took different direction than any previous Chili Peppers ' album . Frusciante sought to create an emotional and poignant soundscape throughout the recording . Drawing influences from musicians such as Vini Reilly of The Durutti Column and John McGeoch , Frusciante made use of textured and multilayered guitar progressions on By the Way , using tools such as the mellotron and various effects pedals throughout . In 2006 , while promoting the band 's subsequent studio album , Stadium Arcadium , Flea reflected on the composition of By the Way , stating : " John went to this whole level of artistry . But he made me feel like I had nothing to offer , like I knew shit . " 
