LOS ANGELES, April 7 -- Elton John has described his new album as the "freshest" he has done since the 1970s, as Who Believes in Angels? was released Friday.

The studio album comes after he wound down his glittering live career with a global farewell tour which wrapped up in Sweden in July 2023.

Who Believes in Angels? is a collaboration with US singer Brandi Carlile and co-written by John's long-time songwriting partner Bernie Taupin.

"This album marks a new beginning for me. It's very fresh. It's probably the freshest album I've done since the 70s," the 78-year-old singer told Smooth Radio ahead of the release.

"I needed new musicians, although I love my band so much, I needed new musicians, new producer to give me a challenge. You ...