June 12, 2009 9:00

Kasabian reveal why they called album 'West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum'

The band reveal record's secrets ahead of Number One showdown

Photo Gallery: Kasabian

Kasabian have revealed the meaning behind the title of their third album 'West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum'.

The album was released this Monday (June 8) and, according to the latest midweek figures, is set to top the UK album charts on Sunday (June 14) night.

Speaking to NME.COM, guitarist Sergio Pizzorno explained that although the album shares it's name with the old Yorkshire madhouse – the same institution name-checked in Kaiser Chiefs' song 'Highroyds' – that is the only thing the two have in common.

"The album isn't about the place, I just first heard about it on a TV documentary, and the words just struck me," explained Pizzorno. "I love the way it looked and the feeling it evokes. Apparently, it was one of the first loony bins for the poor, before that it was mainly rich people who got treatment."

The guitarist also spoke about the record's head-turning sleeve, which sees him dressing up as a "butcher priest".

"The album cover comes from thinking about the words really. It's us getting dressed up for a party at the asylum, looking in the mirror at the costumes," he said, adding it had been inspired by a seminal concept album.

"Amon Düül II's 'Made In Germany' is one of my favourite albums and I really love the sleeve of that record," he said. "I wanted to do something in that tradition. I just thought, bands don’t really do covers like that any more. Admittedly, some people might think we look really silly [laughs], but for me I just think it really works."

Stay tuned to NME.COM for an extended track-by-track guide to 'West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum' from Pizzorno - meanwhile we will be bringing you the latest album chart news at 7pm (BST) on Sunday (June 14).