Backstreet Boys celebrate Millennium early

The Backstreet Boys have enlisted an impressive lineup for their new album, Millennium.

The disc, due out May 18 on Jive/BMG will feature contributions from powerhouse producer Steven Lipson. Part of the fabled ZTT stable, together with label guru Trevor Horn, Lipson oversaw, molded, played on and helped produce releases by ZTT stalwarts Art of Noise, Frankie Goes To Hollywood and Propaganda.

According to Launch.Com, his role on the new album will be as producer and writer on several tracks. Other big names behind the scenes include Max Martin (who has worked with Ace of Base) and producer Robert John Mutt Lange.

Previously known for his contributions to heavy metal, by way of AC/DC and Def Leppard, Lange is currently better known as Mr. Shania Twain.

Shania, who recently admitted to 'rocking out to the Backstreet Boys' before concerts, will introduce the Orlando, Florida based boy band when they perform 'All I Have To Give' on 'Shania Twain's Winter Break', a CBS special airing March 3.

Until then, the five piece band consisting of Kevin Richardson, Brian Littrell, Nick Carter, A.J. McLean, and Howie Dorough have two big February events planned.

There's an upcoming live pay-per-view event as well as a performance at The Grammy Awards, Feb. 24, where the band are nominated for Best New Act.