NEW U.K. DEALS: BMG BAGS MORRISSEY

Having run out of wheatpaste while decorating the office wall, from left, Warner/Chappell Music UK MD Mike Smith, Miranda Cooper, manager Celia McCamley and Warner/Chappell Music UK International Creative Manager Paul Smith show concern that the Pimm's Cups and Juniper Slings they ordered have yet to arrive.

Morrissey is among talent that has signed new deals in Blighty this week with his new album, Low in High-School, set to be released via BMG on 11/17.

Elsewhere, Xenomania songwriter Miranda Cooper has renewed her publishing agreement with Warner/Chappell, while London artist Daecolm has signed to Polydor.

Low in High-School is Morrissey’s 11th studio album and debut for BMG having previously been signed to Universal. The partnership also includes his new label, Etienne Records. Joe Chiccarelli (Frank Zappa, The Strokes, Beck, The White Stripes) produced, aiming to capture “the zeitgeist of an ever-changing world.” Morrissey plays the Hollywood Bowl 11/10.

“There are not many artists around today that can compare to Morrissey. He is an extraordinary talent,” BMG EVP Korda Marshall said. “He is prodigious, literate, witty, elegant and above all, courageous. His lyrics, humour and melodies have influenced many generations. The music on this new landmark record will speak for itself and we are delighted to welcome him to BMG.”

Over at Mike Smith’s U.K. pubco Warner/Chappell, Cooper has renewed a worldwide deal for her songwriting and production catalogue. That includes hits written with Xenomania partner Brian Higgins for Girls Aloud, Kylie Minogue, Pet Shop Boys, Sugababes and The Saturdays.

Finally, singer/songwriter Daecolm secured a deal at UMG label Polydor after his cover of Abba’s “Dancing Queen” went viral. After writing for Chris Brown, Trey Songz and Craig David, he’s now working on a solo career.