ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ

The version of Sister Rose came about when it was recorded as a bonus track on the Japan version of his recent fifth album, The World Is Yours, the Manc superstar decided he liked it so much that he’s making it available in the UK on a special 7” picture-disc.

Ian Brown - Sister Rose

Sadly, the CD won’t feature the Japanese singing, but it does have more than enough treats of its own, with a version of Sister Rose featuring hip hop artist Pharoahe Monch, a DJ Mek remix of the track that features veteran reggae star Starkey Banton, and the videos to both Sister Rose and the first single from the album, Illegal Attacks.

The Sister Rose promo sees the oriental theme continue, as it indulges Ian’s childhood love of Bruce Lee and martial arts, packing in ninja spins, samurai swords, high kicks and nunchaku whirls, though the singer himself has the sense to sit on the sidelines for the action.

And while it is tempting to wish that we could have seen Ian in full karate action, that does mean that he’ll be fighting fit and ready to entertain when his tour rolls into town for his two homecoming shows at Manchester Central (formerly G-MEX) in December.

Surprisingly, it’s the first time Brown has ever played the venue, as the Stone Roses were one of the few big Madchester era bands never to take to take to the stage there. As a result, there’s a strong chance that the shows will be emotional affairs, as King Monkey finally conquers one of the city’s biggest venues.

Ian Brown plays Manchester Central on Friday 7 and Saturday 8 December. Tickets are Β£25.

Sister Rose is out on Monday 3 December.