April 19, 2007 0:54

Ben Lee lines up celeb guests on new album

Mandy Moore, Benji Madden and Rooney help out

Aussie singer-songwriter Ben Lee has enlisted the help of several famous friends for his new album, currently being recorded in Los Angeles.

Good Charlotte’s Benji Madden and members of Rooney have all contributed to the record- Madden co-wrote a song called ‘Love’, while actress Mandy Moore duets with Lee on a “50’s style” track entitled ‘Birds and Bees’.

The record which will be called ‘Ripe’ is the follow-up to 2005’s ‘Awake Is the New Asleep’, and is being recorded at the same studio as Smashing Pumpkins new album, which Lee describes as “exceptional”.

In a post on his website, Lee says:

“Went to the Smashing Pumpkins album-wrap party and heard their awesome newie. Seriously, the heaviest and most intense thing they have ever done. Really exceptional. Sounds like the world needs a record like that right now.”

‘Ripe’ Is due to be released in September.

--By our New York staff.
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