Former Maccabees frontman Orlando Weeks announces debut book and companion record

The 80-page book follows The Gritterman, a man who keeps roads and pavements ice-free in the winter... until he is let go. The story follows The Gritterman on the final night of his job - a blurb describes the book as being "a song for the unsung hero... about stoicism, dignity, and a man leaving behind the work that he loves."

"A lot of people’s work goes unrecognised and this is one of those jobs where that’s the case," says Weeks. "To just go about your business and not need thanks is a very attractive quality, and he finds comfort in that sense of purpose."

Markus Dravs (Björk, Arcade Fire) produces The Gritterman's companion record, which features foley effects and narration from Paul Whitehouse. It looks at The Gritterman's "inner thoughts and allow his feelings to be conveyed romantically and poetically".

As well as being a musician and writer, Weeks is also a talented artist (he studed fine art at college and illustration at university) and created the gorgeous artwork for both the book and album versions of The Gritterman.