Published on February 1st (but available in some stores before this date), the new issue [number 196, dated March 2010, click thumbnail to the right] of the UK's Mojo Magazine takes a good look at Syd Barrett's album The Madcap Laughs. Four decades after recording his dark solo masterpiece, those who knew him - David Gilmour, Robert Wyatt, Storm Thorgerson, Mick Rock and more - join Mojo to tell the inside story of this period in his life.

Including some previously unpublished pictures from those close to him, it's a look at Syd that's not to be missed... With coverage taking in some 15 pages in total, along with a two page analysis of the cover mounted CD, it all adds up to a fascinating look at that period in Syd's life, from the relationship with past band members, through to the recording of the album and the full story behind the cover shoot. As part of the coverage, David Gilmour talks about the unreleased Syd material he has, that he'd like to work on to try and improve it - but warns against anyone raising their expectations of a new release of rarities.

The cover mounted CD - "The Madcap Laughs Again!" has Syd Barrett's 1970 classic re-recorded by Hawkwind, Marc Almond, J Mascis, Field Music, R.E.M., Captain Sensible, Hope, Sandoval, Cate Le Bon, Robyn Hitchcock and many more.

The magazine will be available very shortly in all good UK retailers, and in due course worldwide in selected outlets as an import. Alternatively, call their UK back issue order service on 01858-438806 between 8am-9.30pm (UK time) Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm Saturday to buy your copy. In the US, it's sold at both Borders and Barnes & Noble (among other places) and the US distributor normally is selling it around two weeks after it's published in the UK.