James Bourne, the 42-year-old guitarist from Busted, is releasing a surprise new album after undergoing major surgery to 'extend his life'. The musician revealed in April that he needed the procedure, which led him to step back from the spotlight. Fans grew concerned when his Instagram account appeared to be deleted earlier this month.
New Album 'Murder At The Gates'
Behind the scenes, Bourne has been working on a long-term project he was determined to finish: a new album titled Murder At The Gates. This 13-year megaproject was created for a new musical by Tony Award-winning US playwright Steven Sater. The album will be released on July 1 and features Stranger Things actor Gaten Matarazzo.
Speaking to The Sun, Bourne said: 'I didn't want my health to stop me from promoting this project because I've put 13 years of my life into it. There was a fear of not finishing it. But I knew I had to finish it and give this to the people.' He added that hardcore fans have been waiting for it and that it feels good to have a finished product. 'It's the first album I've ever produced. So I'm proud of it.'
A Different Feeling
Bourne described the closely-guarded album, which even his Busted bandmates have not heard entirely, as having a 'different feeling to all the others.' He announced in September that he would not be on the Busted tour, with his brother Chris stepping in to replace him alongside Matt Willis and Charlie Simpson.
Bourne reflected on missing the tour, calling it a 'gift of time' despite the disappointment. 'But you have to turn negative into positive. They're the conversations I've had with my closest friends. I wanted to take the time I'd been given and deliver this album.'
The musician, who lives in Cornwall, continues to focus on his health and creative projects.
