Duran Duran recording with Ronson

Mark Ronson and Duran Duran teamed up at a gig last year

Duran Duran have gone into the studio with producer Mark Ronson to record their next album.

The pop group, best known for 1980s hits like Rio and Save A Prayer, are starting work on their 13th LP.

Their blog said: "Working with Ronson is a natural next step for the band, who continue to challenge themselves with each new phase of their career."

Ronson, who co-produced Amy Winehouse's Back To Black, collaborated with the band at a gig in Paris last summer.

They reworked the group's classic catalogue at the one-off concert.

When that was announced, Ronson said Duran Duran "were the only band I ever idolised" and admitted he "used to take a picture of [bassist] John Taylor with me to the barber shop".

Festival date

Singer Simon Le Bon, meanwhile, called Ronson "one of the biggest talents to have emerged in recent years".

Their connections stretch back to Ronson's youth, when Taylor was a family friend.

Ronson has since become one of the world's hottest producers, working with acts like Christina Aguilera, Lily Allen, Robbie Williams and Adele.

He won best British male at last year's Brit Awards after releasing a hit album of cover versions.

Duran Duran are also preparing to play their first British festival, headlining the Lovebox event in London in July.