Morrisey lands first album deal in six years

MUSIC icon Morrissey has finally landed a new record deal and is to immediately start work on his first album for six years.

The former Smiths star who first found fame 20 years ago is to release future material on a legendary reggae label.

He was dumped by Island Records several years ago and has been living in Los Angeles without a recording contract since the late '90s.

He has now tied up a deal with music company Sanctuary Records which is reviving the legendary Attack label, which was once part of the Trojan Records reggae stable.

Past releases have included artists such as Gregory Isaacs, The Upsetters and Big Youth.

Morrissey, 44, is famed for his angst-ridden lyrics, mournful delivery and wicked wit. His 1986 release with The Smiths, The Queen Is Dead, is widely regarded as one of the classic albums of the '80s.

But after launching his solo career on a high in 1988, he struggled to maintain long-term success, particularly after alienating some fans with songs such as National Front Disco and posing with a Union Jack, though he strenuously denied any racism.

He slipped from view after his last album Maladajusted in 1997.

Sanctuary Group chief executive Merck Mercuriadis said yesterday: "Morrissey is one of the most important artists of the last 20 years and we are delighted he has given us the opportunity to lead the charge on this significant next phase of his career with a deal that is as innovative as his music.

"Early on in our discussions, Morrissey proved himself to be a connoisseur of our Trojan Records catalogue and expressed an interest in using the Attack label for the release of his records, much as he did the HMV label when he was with EMI.

Record bosses are also hoping he will find other artists for the Attack.

"Attack Records will be a reflection of his creative vision and his exclusive domain," said Mercuriadis.