Chrissie Hynde & Pals Harmonize On Soulful New ‘Duets Special’

Rock legend Chrissie Hynde explores the power of melody with the release of her star-studded collection ‘Duets Special’, available now via Rhino and Parlophone. Credited to Chrissie Hynde & Pals, the 13-track album features stripped-down, intimate reinterpretations of classic songs, including a soulful cover of Billy Paul’s “Me and Mrs. Jones” with k.d. lang. The project originated from a spontaneous phone call with Rufus Wainwright’s husband, Jörn Weisbrodt, leading to a roster of collaborators that includes the late Mark Lanegan, Depeche Mode’s Dave Gahan, and Blondie’s Debbie Harry. From the hauntingly sparse rendition of “Always On My Mind” to the “somnambulant” beauty of Cass McCombs’ “County Line” with Alan Sparhawk, the album highlights Hynde’s “UNESCO world heritage” voice alongside some of the most distinct vocalists in music. Following The Pretenders’ acclaimed ‘Relentless’ and their ‘Kick ’em Where It Hurts’ live record, ‘Duets Special’ marks an unexpected and deeply creative turn in Hynde’s iconic career.