Paul Weller has sent Sir Paul Smith an advanced copy of his new album. The former Jam front man is wel known as a Paul Smith fan.

Paul Weller releases his tenth studio solo album Wake Up the Nation in the United States on May 4th via long-time label Yep Roc Records.

After an unparalleled career, characterized by constant musical experimentation, we should be used to Paul Weller’s relentless desire to chop and change his sound. But after the triumphant, Brit Award-bagging success of 22 Dreams (his third solo number one in the UK), Wake Up The Nation sees one of rock’s most iconic songwriters expand and evolve once more.

A departure stylistically from last year’s more pastoral 22 Dreams, Wake Up is lean, mean and as uncompromisingly focused as it’s maker, Wake Up the Nation also brings Paul Weller full circle: twenty-eight years on from The Jam’s split, two tracks feature the former bassist Bruce Foxton. The album also sees contributions from My Bloody Valentine’s Kevin Shields, The Move’s Bev Bevan and legendary session drummer Clem Cattini.

With passion, progression, and as ever, spine-tingling rock n roll-Paul Weller has delivered the perfect soundtrack to a new decade.