March 27, 2009 13:16

Arctic Monkeys' cover star appears on new album sleeve

Chris McClure poses for the cover of Toddla T's debut album 'Skanky Skanky'

Photo Gallery: Arctic Monkeys

Sheffield newcomer Toddla T has enlisted Arctic Monkeys' affiliate Chris McClure to pose on the cover of his debut album 'Skanky Skanky'.

McClure (brother of Reverend Jon) found fame in 2006 after posing for the cover of Arctic Monkeys' debut album 'Whatever People Say I Am, That's What I'm Not'. Now, he's recreated his famous pose for 'Skanky Skanky', albeit with a few subtle changes.

Speaking to NME.COM, Toddla T explained that the idea of getting McClure to pose for his cover was born out of a conversation with Andy Nicholson – though the ex-Arctic Monkey originally suggested that the dance star himself should imitate McClure's pose.

"I thought it was a right good idea," explained Toddla.

"But then it turned into, 'Actually, let's just get Chris to do it again!' He's our mate anyway. We went to a studio, got pissed and did it."

The star, who has enlisted the services of Matt Helders, Tinchy Strider and Hot Chip's Joe Goddard on 'Skanky Skanky', also made clear that the sleeve isn't a dig towards his fellow Sheffield musicians.

"Part of the reason for doing it was because I've got so much respect for Arctic Monkeys and how they've handled themselves," he said, "so it's a nod to the Sheffield scene. Also the record is quite tongue-in-cheek, so it's a bit of fun as well."

For McLure's verdict on his cover star career, plus to see the new image itself, get this week's issue of NME, on UK newsstands now.