Madchester ravescene legends the Happy Mondays have confirmed they have signed a record deal with Sanctuary records, to release a brand new as-yet-untitled new album.
The album produced by US hip-hop star Sonny Levine will be the group’s first album of new songs since ’92s “Yes Please!”
The last fifteen years have seen group leader Shaun Ryder write and record for Black Grape and Gorillaz whilst also ‘resting’ from the chaos of the drug-fuelled rave scene.
Meanwhile dancer Bez who formed Black Grape with Ryder after the Mondays disbanding in ’92, also went on to win over the public and win Celebrity Big Brother in 2005.
Mixing duties for the new album were performed by Bjork and Howie B, whose previous credits include U2.
Speaking to 6Music recently, Howie B said: “It’s a mental project. It’s really exciting, quite incredible. It’s Shaun back on it. Shaun’s a diamond. He’s singing well, he’s rapping well, his lyrics are just right on it. His language, which was always unique, has got even better.”
The group consisting of original members Shaun Ryder, Gary Whelan and Bez will be premiering their new material at Coachella music festival in California on April 29 after which they will tour the UK.
You can catch the original ravers at the folowing venues:
Inverness, Ironworks (May 22)
Aberdeen, Music Hall (23)
Sheffield, Leadmill (25)
Middlesbrough, Town Hall (26)
Hull, University (27)
Cambridge, Junction (29)
Northampton, Roadmender (30)
Preston, 53 Degrees (31)
Dudley, JB’s (June 1)
Manchester, Ritz (July 8)
Tickets go on sale this Friday March 30 at 9.30am and cost £22.50 with Manchester £28.50.