Kinks songwriter Ray Davies is working on a new album with some very familiar faces.
Ray Davies is one of the most influential songwriters Britain has ever produced. Through a series of albums in the 60s his group The Kinks carved the blueprint for garage rock before focussing on something quintessentially English.
An inspiration to Paul Weller, Damon Albarn and more the singer is now working on a new album. Ray Davies has re-entered the studio, and the songwriter has assembled an all star cast to help him.
Completing his first recording sessions in years, Ray Davies has invited Mumford & Sons into the studio to work with him. The pair will complete a new track, part of a series of new collaborations.
Ray Davies is also set to work with Paloma Faith and Amy MacDonald. Issuing a statement on his official website, the singer explained that despite rumours The Killers will not be participating in the project.
Work on the new album is ongoing, with Ray Davies claiming that recent visitors to the studio include American alt rock heroes Spoon. Other acts contributing to the album include Frank Black, with some material already familiar to fans.
Last year the Kinks songwriter recorded a version of ‘Better Things’ with Bruce Springsteen, while Bon Jovi contributed to ‘Celluloid Heroes’. Meanwhile, American magazine Hipsters United has claimed that Billy Corgan has been working on the new album.
According to reports, the Smashing Pumpkins singer has been working with Ray Davies on a new version of the classic Kinks single ‘Destroyer’.
Other names confirmed for inclusion include seminal Big Star frontman Alex Chilton, who sadly passed away earlier this year. The singer recorded his parts last year, with Lucinda Williams also due to appear.
Currently without a release date, the album is scheduled to be released later this year.
