Jamiroquai return to the studio as Acid Jazz pioneers record their first album in SEVEN years – weeks after the death of former bassist Derek McIntyre

Jamiroquai has begun work on its first album in seven years, weeks after the band’s former bassist Derek McIntyre died in a car accident.

The Acid Jazz pioneers, led by singer Jay Kay, returned to the studio after a recent songwriting session yielded positive results.

It will be the band’s ninth studio album and their first new music since the 2017 release of Automaton, their eighth top ten LP.

The recording sessions also follow the tragic death of bassist McIntyre, who died aged 66 on February 2 following a five-car crash in Bushey, Hertfordshire.

A source said Sun: ‘It’s been a long time coming, but it seems like the time is right for Jamiroquai to work on new music.

‘Jay went to the studio recently for a writing session and everything went very well. They also got the band involved and it was very special to be back together doing what they do best.

‘Everyone involved is excited about the new project and what it will sound like. It’s early and although they don’t know when the new album will be released, the wheels are in motion.’

Jamiroquai rose to prominence in 1992 after signing to independent label Acid Jazz Records, with his debut album Emergency On Planet Earth selling over a million copies upon its release the following year.

The source added that the sudden death of McIntyre, who played bass on the band’s 2005 album Dynamite, was a sobering reminder that life is short.

Following his death, the musician’s family told Hertfordshire Police: “Our father, Derrick McIntyre, was a proud father, husband, brother, son, uncle, grandfather and friend.”

‘He had a passion for music, played bass for most of his life and blessed tracks with his wonderful bass line for the likes of Jamiroquai, Roy Ayers, Beverley Knight and many more.

‘Dad was a great man who influenced many who came into contact with him, inspiring and encouraging whenever he could.

‘No amount of words can sum up how special our father was to all of us, not just within our individual bonds, but as a whole. We will always miss his love, humor and presence and will continue to spread his light. Until we meet again.’

Bandmate Jay added: “It is with great sadness that I hear the sad news of the passing of Derrick McIntyre. He was a pleasure to work with and a magnificently talented musician.

‘My thoughts are with his family, friends and fellow musicians who worked with him. Thinking of you at the big concert in heaven Derrick. J.’

McIntyre’s other credits include tours with Roy Ayers, The Jazz Crusaders and Cliff Richard, as well as working alongside Beverly Knight, Will Young, Emily Sande and John Newman.