The Babyshambles frontman has written 12 tracks for the planned LP, and has already recorded three of them in secret late night studio sessions with producer Jake Foir.

Foir said: "We're recording it between two studios in London. "We go in for two or three hours at a time, usually at about two in the
morning, and get stuff down.

"It sounds slower and more intimate than Babyshambles. Pete's writing is more universal, rather than about personal experiences."

Foir insists the 28-year-old singer's solo project has the blessing of his Babyshambles bandmates - bassist Drew McConnell, guitarist Mick Whitnall and drummer Adam Ficek - and they are all expected to contribute to the album. However, the secret recording sessions have reportedly angered the band's record label Parlophone.

Foir admitted to NME magazine: "We plan to finish recording the album then present it to Parlophone when it is ready to release, but they aren't very happy about Pete working outside their control."

Meanwhile, Foir describes Doherty as "on top form", despite his recent drugs relapse.

The troubled rocker - the ex-boyfriend of supermodel Kate Moss - was captured on two separate videos injecting heroin and snorting cocaine just weeks after leaving rehab.

Foir said: "I just spent a weekend with him. Just me, him and the cats! "He's on top form out there in a 28-room mansion in Wiltshire - it's very 60s-style and cool. He's doing well."

Babyshambles are currently in the middle of an eight date arena tour of the UK, and are set to play London's Wembley Arena tonight (27.11.07).