MusicRadar.com has issued an interview with drummer Chad Smith (CHICKENFOOT, RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS). The following is an excerpt from the interview, conducted by Joe Bosso:

Q: So what is the story with you and Chickenfoot? From what I understand, you're going to finish the album early next year, but what about touring?

A: "We'll start the album next year. We've demoed four songs already, and Joe's got a bunch more. The plan is to get back to recording after Joe's done with his tour in January. I should be free then. I know I'll be free. The Chili Peppers record won't be finished - there'll be more work to do on that - but I'll be done with my tracks. So I should be good for cutting a Chickenfoot record, but I don't think I'll be able to tour behind it."

Q: You're pretty certain of that?

A: [sighs] "Yeah. The Peppers have festival dates booked for the summer of 2011 already, so I can't play in both bands next year. Believe me, I'd love to play with Chickenfoot, and I am pretty certain I'll be able to finish the second record. We have a chemistry that really works, and I'm really excited to get deeper into the music with those guys. Touring, though… I don't see how."

Q: Have you given your vote to a fill-in touring drummer for Chickenfoot?

A: "I don't have a preference, it's whoever they want. I'm cool with it. You know, Chickenfoot started out as this fun thing to do, and then it just got bigger and bigger. Everybody loves it, and I love it, too. We have the best time together. But hey, I got this other group. It's funny: I'll be talking to Joe Satriani about Chickenfoot stuff, and then when I bring up the Chili Peppers he'll say, 'Oh man, I keep forgetting you're in another band.'" [laughs]

Read the full interview at MusicRadar.com.