MJ Kim/MPL Communications Ltd.Paul McCartney has amassed a series of new tunes that he's recorded with Ethan Johns, the producer has revealed to NME.com.  According to Johns, whose resume includes projects with Tom Jones, Joe Cocker and Kings of Leon, the new material sounds like "classic Paul."

"This is very different to the last album," Johns says, referring to Kisses on the Bottom, the collection of standards McCartney released back in February.  "We've done two sessions already and the third is in a few weeks.  It's sounding great."

The producer adds that Sir Paul is "still one of the most extraordinary recording talents."  He also reveals the title of one of the tunes, "Hosanna," an acoustic number he describes as "absolutely heartbreaking" and "gorgeous."

Johns also confirms earlier reports that McCartney has been collaborating with contemporary British DJ and producer Mark Ronson, saying, "I imagine [those tracks are] to be quite current-sounding."

Johns admits that he's uncertain if the songs he's worked on with McCartney actually will be appear on the rock great's next solo album.

"I'm not sure what it is," he maintains.  "I'm simply a guy in his phone book he calls up every now and again and asks if I want to do something.  And you don't say no to McCartney."

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