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Hugh Laurie, the star of hospital drama 'House,' is the latest actor to try his hand at music, recording his own album of "New Orleans blues."

Laurie is to go into the studio with acclaimed producer Joe Henry, who has worked with the likes of Elvis Costello, Aimee Mann and Allen Toussaint. The actor himself has won two Golden Globes for his role as an irascible doctor but is less sure about the reception his singing may receive.

In a press statement, he said, "I am drunk with excitement at this opportunity. I know the history of actors making music is a checkered one, but I promise no one will get hurt. I am particularly thrilled to be working with Joe Henry, who has produced some of my favourite records of all time, and I can't wait to get started."

Despite brickbats in the past for efforts from Bruce Willis and Keanu Reeves with his band Dogstar, actors continue to be tempted by the music business. Tim Robbins is set to put out his own effort 'Tim Robbins & the Rogues Gallery Band' in September, but at least has admitted to BBC Radio 4's 'Desert Island Discs' show that one title he considered was 'The Mid-life Crisis Album.'

Meanwhile, Laurie has inked a deal with Warner Music Entertainment and will go into the studio in the coming months.