The Coral's lead singer James Skelly has revealed that their forthcoming singles collection has helped them to forget about the past – and the departure of former guitarist Bill Ryder-Jones.

Speaking to BBC 6Music, Skelly said the collection, which will also be accompanied by a CD containing unreleased and live tracks, would help them regain their “momentum”.

“Our guitarist left so we took a bit of time out, but you lose your confidence when you take time out. We had the last two albums cut short, did one tour and then that was it, it was over,” he said.

“So, we need to get a bit of momentum really, and remind people how good we are - get a platform for the next album to go out on. It’s a good way to put a full stop on, it’s a new band now.”

The collection of songs will be released on 2CD on September 15th.

Meanwhile, The Coral played an intimate acoustic show at London’s Coliseum Theatre last night (July 29th).

(by Jason Gregory)