Founding lineup's first new studio album in 19 years due out in October 2004
on Epic Records Band works with hit making R&B and alternative rock producers
The original members of Duran Duran - Simon LeBon (vocals), Andy Taylor (guitar),
John Taylor (bass), Roger Taylor (drums) and Nick Rhodes (keyboards) - have
announced the impending release of their first new album together since 1983's
multi-platinum 'Seven & the Ragged Tiger.' Epic Records will release the
as-yet-untitled record worldwide in October 2004.
Writing in the south of France and recording at Sphere Studios in London, the
band members are currently working with producers Rich Harrison (Mary J. Blige,
Alicia Keys, Beyonce, Usher) and Don Gilmore (Good Charlotte, Linkin Park, Pearl
Jam, Sugar Ray), thereby drawing on a unique combination of R&B and alternative
rock experience.
The poignant "What Happens Tomorrow" and the electric/rock "Sunrise"
(a version of which was featured on the 'Queer Eye for the Straight Guy' soundtrack),
both of which the band members have played live since reuniting in 2003, are
slated for inclusion on the new album. Other song highlights include the moody,
noirish "Still Breathing" and the mischievous "Bedroom Toys."
Stylistically adventurous, the album showcases the diverse influences and abilities
of each band member, blending brash rock guitar with slick synths and LeBon's
inimitable lyrics and melodies. The album will also feature a one hour bonus
DVD including live footage shot over two nights at London's Wembley Arena this
past spring and exclusive behind-the-scenes video.
The announcement comes on the heels of a remarkable run of seventeen sold out
arena dates in the UK and Ireland and a victory at the BRIT Awards where the
band members were honored for their "Outstanding Contribution to Music."
They've also received Lifetime Achievement Awards at the MTV Video Music Awards
in New York and the Q Magazine Awards in London in the past year.
Writing and recording material between these triumphant tour dates and accolades,
the band poured their rediscovered chemistry and creative energy into the new
album. "When we decided to reunite, the first thing we did was head to
France to test our chemistry. It became really clear that the magic was still
there," explains LeBon. "Since then, playing together live has cemented
it. We've really rediscovered an incredible musical relationship."
In 2003, Duran Duran celebrated their 25th anniversary and the reunion of the
five founding band members with a run of tremendously successful sold-out shows.
They played to screaming fans in the U.S. and Japan and filled vast stadiums
in Australia and New Zealand. The tour dates marked the first time the original
members had played together since Live Aid in 1985. The New York Post called
one show, "powerful and inventive," while the Village Voice declared,
"(Duran Duran) swooned us to altitudesecclesiastic."
For further information: Josh Glover, Sony Music Canada, Media Relations: (416)
391-7948, Josh_glover@sonymusic.com
Duranduran.com
The official Duran Duran website
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