Ananova:

The bass guitarists with three classic Manchester bands have come together for a side project.

New Order's Peter Hook, The Smiths' Andy Rourke and Mani, who was in the Stone Roses and now plays with Primal Scream, are involved in the band to be called either Freebase or Stalingrad.

As well as writing songs for the new project Hook has also been working on material for New Order's next album.

Meanwhile, ex-Smiths' guitarist Johnny Marr features on the new album by former Nine Inch Nails drummer Chris Vrenna.

The album, to be released in April under Vrenna's Tweaker moniker, also features guest vocals from the Cure's Robert Smith, David Sylvian and Will Oldham.