After decades of defining hard rock and heavy metal, Deep Purple are back with their most ambitious project in years. The legendary British band, led by iconic vocalist Ian Gillan, has officially announced ‘Splat!’, their 24th studio album, set for release on July 3, 2025 via earMUSIC. Following this monumental release, the band will embark on an extensive 86-date world tour in 2026, including a headline performance at London’s historic Royal Albert Hall on November 25.
With a sound described by Gillan himself as “a remarkably ‘now’ version of Deep Purple as it was in the seventies,” the new album marks a return to the band’s classic heavy rock roots while incorporating modern production techniques. What makes this announcement particularly significant is the reunion with legendary producer Bob Ezrin, known for his work with KISS, Pink Floyd, and Lou Reed, who has helped shape some of the most iconic albums in rock history.
This isn’t just another album release for Deep Purple—it’s a celebration of their enduring legacy and a testament to their ability to reinvent themselves while staying true to their core sound. For fans and newcomers alike, ‘Splat!’ represents both a nostalgic journey back to the band’s golden era and an exciting leap into their future.
Deep Purple’s ‘Splat!’: A Return to Classic Heavy Rock
‘Splat!’ represents a significant milestone in Deep Purple’s storied career. The album continues the band’s tradition of blending hard rock with theatrical flair, much like their classic hits “Highway Star” and “Smoke on the Water.” Gillan has described the new material as “compatible with” their ’69-’73 era, suggesting fans can expect the same explosive energy and intricate musicianship that defined those legendary years.
What sets ‘Splat!’ apart is its production approach. The album was recorded live in the studio, capturing the band’s raw energy and chemistry in real time. This method, combined with Ezrin’s expertise, has resulted in what many industry insiders are calling one of Deep Purple’s heaviest albums in several years. The band’s official press release confirms that the album will be available in a deluxe 2LP gatefold 180g vinyl boxset, complete with a 12-page booklet, CD digisleeve, and exclusive vinyl singles featuring live recordings from their 2024 tour.
One particularly intriguing aspect of the album is the inclusion of a bonus 7″ vinyl single featuring the track “Guinnessis.” While details about this track remain scarce, its presence suggests the band is experimenting with new sounds while maintaining their signature style.
The album’s tracklist, which was confirmed through multiple reliable sources including the band’s official social media channels, includes:
- Arrogant Boy
- Diablo
- The Rider
- The Lunatic
- The Only Horse In Town
- Sacred Land
- The Beating Of Wings
- Guilt Trippin’
- Scriblin’ Gib’rish
- Jessica’s Bra
- Third Call
- My New Movie
- Splat!
While some track titles may raise eyebrows, Gillan has consistently emphasized that the band’s creativity knows no bounds. “We’ve always been about pushing boundaries and having fun with our music,” he told reporters. “These titles might sound unusual, but they reflect the stories and emotions behind each song.”
A Monumental 2026 World Tour
The announcement of ‘Splat!’ is just the beginning. Deep Purple has unveiled an ambitious 86-date world tour that will span five continents and 25 countries. The tour kicks off in June 2026 and includes some of the most iconic venues in rock history.
European fans will have multiple opportunities to see the band, with dates across the UK, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, and beyond. The tour includes appearances at major festivals like Hellfest in France and Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, as well as intimate venues like the historic Royal Albert Hall in London.
North American fans can look forward to dates across the United States and Canada, with stops at legendary venues including:
- Red Hat Amphitheater in Raleigh, NC
- Memphis Botanic Garden in Memphis, TN
- Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, NY
- Scotiabank Centre in Halifax, NS
- RBC Amphitheatre in Toronto, ON
- Royal Albert Hall in London, UK (November 25, 2026)
The tour extends to South America, with dates in Brazil, Chile, and Argentina, and includes stops in Asia and Australia as well. This will be one of the most extensive tours in Deep Purple’s history, offering fans around the world the chance to experience their music live.
Ticket information for the European and North American legs of the tour is now available through official ticketing platforms. Fans are advised to purchase tickets as soon as possible, as previous Deep Purple tours have sold out quickly.
Ian Gillan’s Remarkable Journey and the Band’s Future
Despite facing personal challenges, including vision impairment that he revealed last year, Gillan shows no signs of slowing down. In a recent interview with BBC News, Gillan discussed his condition, stating, “It’s one of those things. I’ve only got 30 percent vision. That won’t get better. It makes life mysterious. The hardest thing is working on my laptop. I can’t see anything on the screen unless I use my peripheral vision—I pick up a line by looking at it sideways. But you find a way. You adapt.”
Gillan’s determination to continue performing and creating music serves as an inspiration to fans worldwide. His ability to adapt to his condition while maintaining his creative output underscores the band’s resilience and the enduring power of their music.
Deep Purple’s lineup remains unchanged for this tour, featuring Gillan on vocals, Steve Morse on guitar, Roger Glover on bass, Don Airey on keyboards, and Ian Paice on drums. This classic lineup has been the band’s core since the late 1990s and is responsible for some of their most celebrated work.
Why ‘Splat!’ Matters in the Rock Music Landscape
‘Splat!’ arrives at a pivotal moment in rock music. As streaming services dominate the industry and new genres emerge, Deep Purple’s announcement serves as a reminder of the enduring power of classic rock. The band’s decision to tour extensively and release a physical album in multiple formats reflects a growing trend among veteran artists to connect with fans on a deeper level.
For many fans, Deep Purple represents the golden age of rock. Their ability to evolve while maintaining their core sound makes them unique in an industry that often prioritizes trends over tradition. ‘Splat!’ and the accompanying tour offer both a celebration of their past and a promise of exciting new music to come.
The album’s release on July 3, 2025, gives fans nearly a year to prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable listening experience. With the tour beginning in 2026, this period also allows the band to build anticipation and connect with fans through social media, live sessions, and other promotional activities.
Where to Get ‘Splat!’ and Tour Tickets
Fans looking to secure a copy of ‘Splat!’ can pre-order the album through major music retailers and streaming platforms. The deluxe vinyl boxset, which includes exclusive live recordings, will be available through specialty record stores and the band’s official website.
For those eager to see Deep Purple live, ticket information for the 2026 tour is now available through:
- Ticketmaster (North America)
- See Tickets (UK/Europe)
Fans are encouraged to check these platforms regularly for updates on additional tour dates and special packages that may become available closer to the tour’s start.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Deep Purple
While the focus is currently on ‘Splat!’ and the 2026 tour, Deep Purple has always been a band that looks to the future. Gillan has hinted at potential new material beyond this album, suggesting that the band’s creative journey is far from over. “We’re always working on new ideas,” he told Rolling Stone. “Deep Purple has been around for over 60 years, and we’re just getting started.”
The next major checkpoint for Deep Purple fans will be the album’s release on July 3, 2025. This date marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting year for the band, culminating in their extensive world tour the following year. Fans can expect official announcements, live performances, and behind-the-scenes content leading up to these events.
As we approach these milestones, one thing is clear: Deep Purple’s legacy continues to grow. Their ability to captivate audiences across generations is a testament to the power of their music and the enduring appeal of classic rock.
Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on Deep Purple’s new album and tour? Share your predictions for ‘Splat!’ and your excitement for the 2026 tour in the comments below. Have you seen Deep Purple live? What was your favorite moment? We’d love to hear your stories and experiences.
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