Massive Attack's Albarn awe

Massive Attack say Damon Albarn is an "absolute genius".

The 'Teardrop' duo had a range of guest stars appearing on their forthcoming new album but say working with the Blur and Gorillaz star was the most daunting.

Band member Grant 'Daddy G' Marshall told Gigwise: "How do you produce Damon? You kindly ask Damon. You say 'Damon, we've got a track that we want you to do and here are the lyrics, would you like to have a look at the lyrics?"

As well as Damon, the trip-hop stars have invited Faith No More's Mike Patton, Phantom Limb's Yolanda Quarty, Fredo Viola and Beth Orton to appear on their as-yet untitled record.

The album - the group's first since 2003's '100th Window' - is scheduled for release in February 2010.