Charlemagne Productions

A year after he wrapped up his Charlemagne metal project, nonagenarian actor and musician Sir Christopher Lee -- the world's oldest metal performer in history -- has launched a new mini-album, just in time for his birthday on 27 May.

Based on the character of Don Quixote from the 17th-century Miguel de Cervantes novel of the same name, the album, called Metal Knight, features seven songs performed by Sir Lee and Italian symphonic metal band Rhapsody of Fire.

The album features two songs from Don Quixote musical Man of La Mancha, "I, Don Quixote" and "The Impossible Dream", as well as covers of "The Toreador March" from the opera "Carmen" and Paul Anka's "My Way".

"As far as I am concerned, Don Quixote is the most metal fictional character that I know," Sir Lee said. "Single handed, he is trying to change the world, regardless of any personal consequences. It is a wonderful character to sing."

Check out the video below for a sampling of the music and to hear Sir Lee's thoughts on the tracks. You can also pick up the album from iTunes for AU$11.99 (US$6.99 | £4.99).