DEEP PURPLE are back — and heavier than they've been in years. The iconic British hard rock legends have announced Splat!, their new studio album, slated for July 3, 2026 via earMUSIC. The band describes it as their most aggressive work in many years.
Produced by the legendary Bob Ezrin — whose résumé includes KISS, Pink Floyd, Lou Reed, and Alice Cooper — Splat! finds DEEP PURPLE channeling the raw energy that defined their classic 1969–1973 era. Frontman Ian Gillan describes the current lineup as "a very 'now' version of DEEP PURPLE as it was in the '70s," promising music that retains the "dynamics, balance, and fun" of that period.
Conceptually, the album takes an intriguing inversion of apocalyptic themes. Rather than depicting destruction, Splat! explores humanity's end as a metamorphosis — a transformation beyond physical existence. Gillan developed this concept as a counterpoint to our era's obsession with doomsday narratives.
The 13-track album features songs such as "Arrogant Boy", "Diablo", "The Rider", "The Lunatic", "Sacred Land", "The Beating Of Wings", and the closing title track "Splat!". Multiple formats: CD digisleeve, standard and limited vinyl (purple and transparent yellow variants), picture disc, cassette, and a deluxe box set with live recordings.
DEEP PURPLE will support the record with an exhaustive 86-date world tour across 28 countries throughout 2026.