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Deep Purple Releases 24th Studio Album 'SPLAT!' on July 3, 2026
On July 3 2026, Deep Purple unveiled their 24th studio effort, SPLAT!. Fans can grab the record on CD, a limited‑edition box set, or download it from Apple Music and Amazon Music. The new album signals the band’s return to a heavier sonic palette, a shift critics say recalls the energy of the classic Mark II lineup.
Producer Bob Ezrin, who has guided every Deep Purple release since 2013’s Now What?!, returned to the studio for SPLAT!. Ezrin’s long‑standing partnership with the group has helped shape their recent output, and the band’s frontman highlighted his involvement as a key element of the project.
Lead vocalist Ian Gillan described the material as “compatible with ‘Highway Star’, ‘Smoke on the Water’, ‘Lazy’ – the dynamics, the balance, and the fun of the music we made from ‘69 to ‘73.” His comments underline the band’s intent to recapture the vigor of their early‑70s work while adding contemporary production values.
Bassist Roger Glover, a constant in the lineup since the 1970s, is noted for his prominent bass lines throughout the album. Glover explained that he switched to a Fender Precision bass in the studio after Ezrin suggested the instrument would record better. He added that the Precision’s sound “records beautifully,” and that he has since used the same bass on all subsequent recordings with the band. The title track, which closes the album, showcases Glover’s driving bass work.
The track list for SPLAT! includes twelve songs: 1. Arrogant Boy 2. Diablo 3. The Rider 4. The Lunatic 5. The Only Horse in Town 6. Sacred Land 7. The Beating of Wings 8. Guilt Trippin’ 9. Scriblin’ Gib’rish 10. Jessica’s Bra 11. Third Call 12. My New Movie 13. Splat!
The album’s release follows a period of renewed activity. Early in 2026, Deep Purple announced a new tour that will coincide with the launch of SPLAT!. The tour will feature songs from the new album alongside selections from the band’s extensive catalog.
Reviewers have described Splat! as the heaviest material the group has produced in recent years. Aggressive guitar work, a tight rhythm section, and Gillan’s soaring vocals are cited as key elements that bring the band’s classic sound into the present.
Distribution reflects current industry trends. In addition to physical formats, the band has partnered with major streaming platforms to ensure wide accessibility. The digital release includes high‑resolution audio files for audiophiles, while the limited‑edition box set offers exclusive artwork and a bonus disc.
Deep Purple’s continued collaboration with Bob Ezrin and the use of a Precision bass in the studio illustrate the band’s commitment to both historical authenticity and modern production techniques. The blend of veteran musicianship and contemporary recording practices positions SPLAT! as a significant entry in the band’s long‑standing discography.
Looking ahead, the band’s schedule includes several festival appearances in late summer, where they will perform tracks from SPLAT! alongside classics such as Smoke on the Water. No further releases are announced at this time, but the band’s official website and social media channels will provide updates on tour dates and future projects.
In summary, SPLAT! marks Deep Purple’s return to a heavier, more dynamic sound, supported by a seasoned production team and a lineup that has remained largely unchanged for decades. The album’s release, tour, and streaming strategy demonstrate the band’s adaptability in a rapidly evolving music landscape.
Producer Bob Ezrin, who has guided every Deep Purple release since 2013’s Now What?!, returned to the studio for SPLAT!. Ezrin’s long‑standing partnership with the group has helped shape their recent output, and the band’s frontman highlighted his involvement as a key element of the project.
Lead vocalist Ian Gillan described the material as “compatible with ‘Highway Star’, ‘Smoke on the Water’, ‘Lazy’ – the dynamics, the balance, and the fun of the music we made from ‘69 to ‘73.” His comments underline the band’s intent to recapture the vigor of their early‑70s work while adding contemporary production values.
Bassist Roger Glover, a constant in the lineup since the 1970s, is noted for his prominent bass lines throughout the album. Glover explained that he switched to a Fender Precision bass in the studio after Ezrin suggested the instrument would record better. He added that the Precision’s sound “records beautifully,” and that he has since used the same bass on all subsequent recordings with the band. The title track, which closes the album, showcases Glover’s driving bass work.
The track list for SPLAT! includes twelve songs: 1. Arrogant Boy 2. Diablo 3. The Rider 4. The Lunatic 5. The Only Horse in Town 6. Sacred Land 7. The Beating of Wings 8. Guilt Trippin’ 9. Scriblin’ Gib’rish 10. Jessica’s Bra 11. Third Call 12. My New Movie 13. Splat!
The album’s release follows a period of renewed activity. Early in 2026, Deep Purple announced a new tour that will coincide with the launch of SPLAT!. The tour will feature songs from the new album alongside selections from the band’s extensive catalog.
Reviewers have described Splat! as the heaviest material the group has produced in recent years. Aggressive guitar work, a tight rhythm section, and Gillan’s soaring vocals are cited as key elements that bring the band’s classic sound into the present.
Distribution reflects current industry trends. In addition to physical formats, the band has partnered with major streaming platforms to ensure wide accessibility. The digital release includes high‑resolution audio files for audiophiles, while the limited‑edition box set offers exclusive artwork and a bonus disc.
Deep Purple’s continued collaboration with Bob Ezrin and the use of a Precision bass in the studio illustrate the band’s commitment to both historical authenticity and modern production techniques. The blend of veteran musicianship and contemporary recording practices positions SPLAT! as a significant entry in the band’s long‑standing discography.
Looking ahead, the band’s schedule includes several festival appearances in late summer, where they will perform tracks from SPLAT! alongside classics such as Smoke on the Water. No further releases are announced at this time, but the band’s official website and social media channels will provide updates on tour dates and future projects.
In summary, SPLAT! marks Deep Purple’s return to a heavier, more dynamic sound, supported by a seasoned production team and a lineup that has remained largely unchanged for decades. The album’s release, tour, and streaming strategy demonstrate the band’s adaptability in a rapidly evolving music landscape.
