Robbie Williams' surprise solo album to go head-to-head with Take That

Williams re-joined the band for their 2010 album Progress, but declined to take part in their latest release

Robbie Williams is to release a surprise solo album on Monday – the same day that his former compatriots Take That release their new album without him.

Williams’ Under the Radar: Volume 1 will go head-to-head with Take That’s new album III, the band’s first album as a trio.

After rejoining Take That for their Progress album in 2010, Williams declined to take part in their latest release. Jason Orange also quit the band this year.

Williams announced his new LP in a video posted on YouTube. The record is a collection of tracks that were recorded for previous albums, but failed to make the final cuts. His first release since Swings Both Ways in 2013, it will be available to download from Williams’ website.

“It’s loads and loads of songs that I’ve written that I’m incredibly passionate about,” Williams said. “I want you to hear them, otherwise they’re just going to remain in my computer.”

He added: “Guy Chambers (Williams’ co-writer) isn’t happy with me putting these songs on this album. He thinks I'm a lunatic for not putting them on an album that we've promoted with TV performances and at radio stations and a big tour. But I’m an impetuous bugger, and I want them out now, now, now.”

Take That have signed a deal to stream their new album on Google’s music service, blocking out Spotify until the new year. Their new single These Days is battling for the number one position with Band Aid 30 in this Sunday’s Top 40.