September 22, 2008 11:12

Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan, Brian Wilson team up for new War Child album

Duffy, The Kooks, Hot Chip, Beck also set for unique covers album

A new album of covers for the charity War Child is to be released on November 22.

'Heroes' sees music legends including Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan, The Clash, David Bowie and Brian Wilson chose a song from their back catalogue to be covered by a modern-day artist - also chosen by them.

Paul McCartney has picked Duffy to cover his 1973 Wings classic 'Live And Let Die', while Hot Chip take on Joy Division's 'Transmission'.

Other artists appearing on the album include The Kooks (covering The Kinks' 'Victoria'), Rufus Wainwright (singing a medley of two tracks from Brian Wilson's 'Smile') and Beck, who was asked by Bob Dylan to cover 'Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat'.

The artwork for 'Heroes' has been created by former Stone Roses guitarist John Squire, who also provided the cover for War Child's 1995 album 'Help'.

Speaking about the album, Paul McCartney said: "I have been supporting War Child since 1995. Their work with children in war zones saves lives and their work with those who take decisions that help them to do something about it saves even more lives.

"I think Duffy's version of 'Live And Let Die' is great - I was really impressed. The breadth of talent on this project is amazing; it's great that so many people gave their time, energy and support to this initiative. I urge everyone to support War Child."

More songs and the artists covering them will be announced on NME.COM soon.