Albums can be inspired by many emotions. Some take their cue from the euphoria of love, others from the ache of breaking up. But for his new solo record, Killers frontman Brandon Flowers has been inspired by that most devastating of emotions – grief.

Titled Flamingo, the record was conceived six months ago when the singer cancelled the band’s tour of Asia and Australia where they were to be seen at Good Vibrations Festival (Sydney) to be at his mother Jean’s side as she lost her battle to brain cancer.

Featuring contributions from Killers bandmates Mark Stoermer, Dave Keuning and Ronnie Vannucci Jr., the album also includes a heartbreaking duet with Rilo Kiley singer Jenny Lewis.

“You let me into your life unaware/ there was magic and fire in the night,” Flowers sings. “And back then I was just a little boy/ I made mistakes that caused you so much pain/ all I know is that I’m older now.”

Last week Canadian fans were given a sneak peek of the album, when Flowers gave an intimate performance at the Mod Club in Toronto.