Carl Barât releases his eponymous debut solo album via his own imprint Arcady Records.

Carl has also written his first book ‘Threepenny Memoir’, to be published by Harper Collins on 30th September.

He will also be setting out on a UK and European tour throughout October with a five piece band.

Having released two albums with The Libertines and then a further two with Dirty Pretty Things, Carl was very keen to do his own record and do things his own way.

Recorded in London and mixed in New York, the result is a departure from Carl’s previous releases, but maintains his ear for melody.

The album allowed him to work with new people and try new musical ideas.

The result is a very honest and heartfelt record, with upbeat tales of friendship and laments for lost love.

Opening track ‘The Magus’ has a magical music box feel to it, ‘Carve My Name’ is awash with strings and ‘So Long My Lover’ is uplifting and joyful, despite being about the end of a relationship.

Carl’s book ‘Threepenny Memoir’ is a collection of stories and reminisces from his life.

Written in themed chapters, he talks of his love of London, his heroes, his adventures in theatreland and of course, the highs and lows of being in a band like The Libertines who really did turn everything upside down.

August saw Carl playing Reading and Leeds Festivals with the reformed Libertines, which was one of the most eagerly anticipated shows of the summer.