Black Keys singer Dan Auerbach has overseen Dr John's new album 'Locked Down'.

A pivotal - and utterly unique - figure in American music, Dr John's career could be set to take another unexpected turn. Black Keys frontman Dan Auerbach coaxed the iconic musician into a live performance last year, and it seems that this has snowballed into a full album project.

Recorded in Nashville's Easy Eye Sound studio, 'Locked Down' matches Dr John (real name Mac Rebennack) with a group of young musicians handpicked by Dan Auerbach.

The project was kicked off by the Black Keys singer, who apparently tracked down the legendary New Orleans musician with the promise to produce "the best record you've made in a long time."

Nonesuch Records are due to handle the release, with 'Locked Down' set to drop on April 2nd. A quote from Dr John: "It was way cool cutting this record with Dan and the crew he put together for it. It's reel HIP."

And the response from Dan Auerbach: "Mac inspired me every single day we were in the studio together – musically, spiritually, cosmically... something special seemed to be happening and everyone involved could sense it. For my money, Mac's one of the greatest who ever was and who ever will be... I'm so honored to have had this opportunity to work with him."

Running alongside the release, Dr John is set to lead a three week residency titled 'Dr. John: Insides Out' at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in Brooklyn, New York, from March 29th through to April 14th.

Sitting at the centre of the residency is a three night run from Dr John himself, in which Dan Auerbach will join Dr. John and a handpicked band to premiere new music from the album at the BAM Howard Gilman Opera House (April 5th - 7th).

'Locked Down' is due to be released on April 2nd.