By Jeff Nelson @nelson_jeff

09/15/2015 AT 02:25 PM EDT
With last week's release of Paper Gods marks Duran Duran's whopping 14th album in 37 years.

PEOPLE caught up with singer Simon Le Bon, 56, about why the LP's different from their past hits, how Lindsay Lohan is in the credits (!) and why he's "not surprised in the slightest" that One Direction plans to take a break.

How was the album different from Duran Duran's past work ?

We've never had an album with so many guest stars. I've always really resisted collaborations, mainly because, as a singer, it's usually vocal collaborations, and I feel that usually means that you let go of control of the vocals on the record. I supposed you could say I've held onto the microphone quite jealously in the past decades.

One of the feature artists that was a surprise was Lindsay Lohan on ''Dancephobia.'' How did that come about?

I've known Lindsay for years and years and years. I met her in New York when we were both appearing on the Regis and Kelly show, believe it or not, so we stayed in contacted in a relaxed way. She texted me, and I said, "Well, I'll try and find a slot for you." And then "Dancephobia" came up. We really needed something special for that little space in that song, and Lindsay delivered 100 percent.

What's it brought to the album? It has brought a little controversy. She polarizes people, Lindsay – doesn't she? She's very special. I'm really proud that we've got her on it.

One Direction recently announced they're going to take a break. As someone in a band, what do you make of it?

I'm not surprised in the slightest. That is so normal. That was so predictable. It's the fact they work every bloody day. The pressure on them is so great, something had to break. I think it's a good decision. Good luck to them all – they've worked so hard.

You've got three daughters [including model Amber Le Bon]. Are you a cool dad?

It's very rare that you will hear one's kids refer to one as being "cool." I'm okay. They could have done a lot worse, and they know that. I'm not your average dad, but I'm a good, caring, loving father. And I've got very cool kids. I can say that with absolute conviction.

For more on Simon Le Bon and Duran Duran's latest album, pick up the new issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands now.

Courtesy PEOPLE Magazine