D’Angelo Hits the Studio, Kooks’ New Tune + More

D’Angelo is back in the studio working on his first album since 2000’s Grammy-winning Voodoo, according to the Roots‘ Ahmir “?uestlove” Thompson, who’s recording tracks with the singer. “Most people use midnight as a time to sleep,” he Tweeted. “Others are working on their 11 year follow-up.” Billboard reports the album could be released as early as this year, but may get pushed to 2012. The reclusive D’Angelo, who has had a string of legal troubles recently, has been reportedly collaborating with many artists, including Prince, John Mayer, and Mark Ronson, although it is not clear if those songs will be on the album.

British rockers the Kooks have released the first single from their next album Junk of the Heart, due out September. Check out the bright, ska-tinged single “Is It Me” below.

The city council of Kurt Cobain‘s hometown Aberdeen, WA, is considering naming a bridge and park after the late Nirvana frontman. The proposal would re-title the Young Street Bridge that spans the Wiskah River in his name, while a small park next to the bridge would be called Cobain Landing. [AP]

Jay-Z has posted more than 20 photos of his recording session with Kanye West for their collaborative album Watch the Throne. Head to Jay’s Life and Times site to check out the intimate photos of them in the studio.

Brooklyn synth-pop act Chairlift have released the first track from their forthcoming album Cool as Fire. Check out the bubbly, new wave-y jam “Amanaemonesia” below. Founding member Aaron Pfenning, meanwhile, has quit the group and will release his debut single under the name Rewards on July 25.

Teddybears — the Swedish synth-pop act featuring members of Robyn‘s backing back — have released a super-creepy video for their single “Cho-Cha,” which has guest spots from Cee Lo and B-52’s. The clip stars Jeff Turner, who was accused of stalking ’80s teen stars Tiffany and Alyssa Milano, reprising a similarly creepy role. Check it out below (via Stereogum).

Tom Vek has released a satirical (though gorgeously shot) video for his song “Aroused,” which skewers the fashion industry and its obsession with smoking. Watch it over at Nowness.