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 a 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."