First up is the brand-new Deep Purple album Splat, arriving on July 3rd. Ian Gillan’s description of the album as the heaviest Deep Purple record in years, with references to the energy and improvisational spirit of the band’s legendary Mark II era. There’s also discussion about the continuing impact of guitarist Simon McBride, producer Bob Ezrin’s evolving role within the band, and the sheer number of vinyl, CD, cassette and deluxe box set editions now available for collectors.
The second featured release is the forthcoming 25th studio album from The Rolling Stones, Foreign Tongues. I reflect on how remarkable it is that the Stones continue to create vibrant new music decades into their career. With contributions from Paul McCartney, Robert Smith and Stevie Winwood, plus production from Andrew Watt, the album promises groove, looseness and bluesy swagger in classic Stones fashion. Phil also compares the ever-growing world of deluxe bundles and physical media editions between the Stones and Deep Purple campaigns.
Finally, attention turns to a beautifully curated archival release from Small Faces — The Decca Singles 1965–1967 box set from Nice Records. Limited to just 500 numbered copies, the collection gathers every Decca A-side and B-side mastered from the original tapes and presented in replica vinyl form.
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