I COULDN’T help at being reassured that one of the secrets behind Goldfrapp’s intoxicating brand of soulful synthpop is, well, ‘jamming’.

So says lead singer Alison Goldfrapp, who despite the complexities in vision and execution of new album ‘Tales Of Us’, firmly believes in sitting down with an instrument or two with band member Will Gregory to see what happens.

I feel better, because music is something I try to relate to. When things like ‘sonic landscapes’ are mentioned, I panic a bit.

Alison said: “Part of the creative process is discovery.

“For example improvising and jamming is such an important part of song writing for Will and I, for which you have to surrender your inhibitions, and that's when magic can happen.”

Tales of Us debuted at number four on the UK Albums Chart following its release last month.

Each song is named after a character created by Goldfrapp, laden heavily with strings and sadness.

“Some of the names are taken from the stories the songs were inspired by.

“I chose others because I felt they represented something about the person or the setting.

“Alvar, for instance, is a Finnish name. I've always been fascinated by fairy tales and landscapes of Northern Europe.

“ Strings can give such drama and expansiveness.

“Also, Will and I are big romantics, we love their bittersweet melancholia.”

This is the sixth album from the London duo, recorded in English countryside.

It follows 2003 success Black Cherry and Supernature in 2005, the latter leading to a Grammy Awards nomination for best dance album.

Tales Of Us, however, is something a bit different. The emphasis is on nature, and, imagination.

“This album is more minimal than previous albums we've done,” said Alison.

I like the intimacy and the suspense you can create with just the voice, guitar, and strings.

“When you look at space and emptiness, your imagination fills in the blanks.”

An exhibition curated by Alison Goldfrapp opens at the Lowry at Salford Quays, Manchester, on Saturday October 19.

It explores her personal inspirations through the painters, film makers, illustrators and photographers that have influenced her.

Entry to the exhibition is free. It is open until March 2 2014.