David Bowie has praised Scarlett Johansson’s debut album, ‘Anywhere I Lay My Head’ – on which he has contributed singing parts.

Bowie called Scarlett’s performances “mystical” in a statement on his website designed to play down his own role on the record.

"I've seen the press on this and I suppose the record company wanted to spin my involvement a little more than it actually warrants,” he said.

“All I contribute are these “oo's” and “ah's” on a couple of tracks.”

The album, which features ten Tom Waits covers and an original composition, was produced by TV On The Radio’s Dave Sitek.

“The songs are great, really good Tom Waits stuff, and Scarlett's performances are mystical and twice cool,” Bowie explained.

“She creates a mood that could have been summoned by someone like Margery Latimer or Jeanette Winterson."

(by Jason Gregory)