DEEP PURPLE Unleashes the Beast with 'Splat!' – A Heavy Metal Masterpiece Awaits
In a riveting chat with Meltdown on Detroit's WRIF, the legendary Ian Gillan, frontman of the iconic DEEP PURPLE, unveiled the details of their impending studio release, 'Splat!'. Set to drop on July 3 via earMUSIC, this album promises to be a seismic shift in the band's discography, heralded as their heaviest work in years, thanks largely to the alchemic production genius of Bob Ezrin, known for his work with titans like KISS and PINK FLOYD.
Gillan elaborated on the dynamics that shaped 'Splat!', citing the infusion of new energy brought by guitarist Simon McBride, who’s now firmly entrenched in the band’s DNA after four years. "It’s more relaxed as things come naturally," Gillan stated, emphasizing the band's newfound groove. The emphasis on the rhythm section, with drums and bass pushed higher in the mix, signifies a raw energy that’s palpable. This is not just an album; it's a battering ram of sound that promises to rattle the very rafters of rock.
The first two singles, 'Diablo' and 'Arrogant Boy', showcase a stellar interplay between guitar and keyboards that Gillan likens to a spontaneous conversation. This organic exchange of musical dialogue exemplifies DEEP PURPLE's rich legacy, with each note reflecting the band’s storied history and evolving artistry. In a moment of pure joy, Gillan confessed that his favorite part of live performances is when he steps back from the mic, immersing himself in the sonic tapestry woven by the band. "It’s the best seat in the house," he quipped.
With the departure of guitarist Steve Morse last year due to personal circumstances, McBride stepped in to fill some colossal shoes, and by all indications, he’s not just fitting in; he’s soaring. The single 'Diablo' introduces listeners to a darkly whimsical narrative, a classic DEEP PURPLE rocker brimming with infectious riffs and a chemistry that only decades of experience can forge. The track's story spirals into a surreal realm, where a heroine embarks on a wild adventure that’s as enthralling as the music itself.
In an exciting twist, 'Splat!' features a guest appearance from none other than Keith Urban, a global superstar in his own right, adding a fresh layer to the album's sound. Early reviews have already hailed 'Splat!' as a quintessential DEEP PURPLE experience, with outlets like Uncut labeling it as "distilled, high-octane PURPLE at its finest." Classic Rock also lauded the release, noting it captures the essence of what has made DEEP PURPLE an enduring force in hard rock.
As the band gears up for an extensive European tour, kicking off in Finland and spanning 86 shows across 28 countries, the anticipation for 'Splat!' grows. Tickets are now available, and fans can pre-order the album in multiple formats, including special editions exclusive to the official 'Splat!' shop. DEEP PURPLE continues to not just preserve but expand their legacy, blending their classic hard rock roots with a forward-thinking vision that challenges the very fabric of musical existence.