Johnny Marr has announced that his debut solo album The Messenger will be with us on February 22, 2013.

Marr is one of the most celebrated guitarists in the history of contemporary music, his band The Smiths were responsible for inspiring so many musicians to pick up guitars and make music across Britain and Ireland.

Since splitting from The Smiths in 1987, Marr has gone on to play with The The, Electronic, Modest Mouse and most recently with The Cribs who hit the Top 10 with their 2009 album Ignore The Ignorant.

Marr returned to the UK from Portland, Oregon, where he'd been residing since 2005, to commence work on the album. He's contributed vocals, guitar and production, with song titles such as ‘The Right Thing Right’, ‘I Want The Heartbeat’, ‘European Me’ and ‘Word Starts Attack’ set for inclusion.

The Messenger was recorded in Manchester and Berlin, and mastered at Abbey Road by Frank Artwright.

February 22 can't come quick enough. Although we are a little disappointed that no Irish dates have yet to be announced for the 2013 tour. Here's hoping though.