John Oates' new album is called 'Reunion.' But don't think Hall & Oates are getting back together

NEW YORK (AP) — For many music fans, John Oates is most recognizable as one-half of the Grammy-nominated Hall & Oates, the multiplatinum soul-pop duo behind hits like “Rich Girl” and “Maneater" now riven by litigation. But he's also had a full career as a soloist.

His sixth solo album, “Reunion,” is out May 17. Just don't consider the title a thinly veiled attempt at getting the band back together — what he recognizes as “a true irony.”

In November, Hall sued Oates, arguing that his plan to sell off his share of a joint venture would violate the terms of a business agreement the duo had forged. He accused Oates of committing the “ultimate partnership betrayal” by planning to sell his share without the other’s permission. A few days later, a judge sided with Hall in his request to keep Oates temporarily blocked from selling his potentially lucrative share. The litigation is ongoing.

“There’s been no communication,” Oates says when asked if he’s in touch with Hall. “And it’s unfortunate that certain legal proceedings work in certain ways, which, of course, you know, I can’t discuss. But let’s put it this way. It’s working itself out. It’s going to be resolved, and it will be over. It wasn’t a fun two years, but you know what? I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.”