The follow-up to 2004's 'American Idiot' was recorded alongside Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins producer Butch Vig.

'21st Century Breakdown', which is split into three sections, tells the story of a young couple called Christian and Gloria.

Song titles according to Billboard include 'East Jesus Nowhere', '21 Guns' and 'Restless Heart Syndrome'.

The album will be preceded by the single 'Know Your Enemy' in April.

Meanwhile, Green Day are scheduled to begin a North American arena tour in July before calling in Europe later in the year.

The tour will eventually reach Japan and Southeast Asia in 2010.

(by Jason Gregory)