British pop superstar Robbie Williams is planning an album of big-band cover songs in the style of Frank Sinatra. Williams, who released Sing When You're Winning last October, will be taking a break from contemporary fare in order to deliver the vintage set, which is promised for late 2001 or early 2002.

The singer first covered Ol' Blue Eyes earlier this year when he recorded a version of "Have You Met Miss Jones?" for the soundtrack to Bridget Jones's Diary, and more Sinatra tunes are planned for the covers album set. Although a proper follow-up to Sing When You're Winning isn't expected until 2003, Williams will release a new, original single "Eternity" next month to coincide with his U.K. summer tour.

JOHN D. LUERSSEN
(June 12, 2001)