Red Hot Chili Peppers deny split

The rockers announced a year-long hiatus last year, and have now decided to extend it by a further six months.

But they insisted they weren't splitting up, just taking a much-needed break.

Speaking to Q magazine, drummer Chad Smith said: "We're not playing right now, but we played a lot before. It was time to take a little break and live your life."

Smith is currently recording with new 'supergroup' Chickenfoot, made up of Joe Satriani and Van Halen's Sammy Hagar and Michael Anthony.

The four-piece, who release their self-titled LP on June 8, will perform at the O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire on June 25 and at a number of summer festivals.

Meanwhile, Chili Peppers bassist Flea has signed up to study music at a California university