Rock’s premier proponent of top hats, Slash, has issued an update on his forthcoming solo album. Come on in to check out which rock luminaries are recording as part of his band… and also get the latest news on Velvet Revolver’s hunt for a new singer!

Confirming that the recording process has now begun, the former G’N’R axe-man has entrusted bass duties to Chris Chaney (Jane’s Addiction), with the position of drummer going to Josh Freese (A Perfect Circle, NIN), whilst Eric Valentine take the producers chair.

In the update, Slash tells us: “Things are going fantastic in the studio, Josh Freese and Chris Chaney are one hell of a rhythm machine and the guitar sound is FAT! Fucking awesome tone! All is going perfect so far.”

An as yet un-named vocalist is also due to appear on the album, with Slash teasing: “We start recording vocals today and I’m really excited about working with this particular individual; it’s going to be quite an event.”

Axl Rose’s best pal also found time to Comment on Velvet Revolver’s on going search for a new singer, after former Stone Temple Pilots man, Scott Weiland, was dismissed.

“There was a lot of talk about our announcing a new singer in March but it obviously didn’t happen.” He said.

“We had somebody that we thought was a really good candidate, but it just wasn’t meant to be. So, we’re still looking.

And as for any possible VR tour? “Of course VR is going to tour again, we just have to find the right person to front the band. We have a bunch of new material and we’re all anxious to get going, but the key ingredient for a rock n’ roll band such as VR is an amazing front man, and we haven’t found the right man for the job, yet.”