The alternative rock band A Perfect Circle has surprised fans with the release of a new single, "Starless," on May 27, 2026. This release comes just ahead of their highly anticipated UK and European tour, marking their first new music since the 2018 album *Eat the Elephant*, with the exception of the 2024 track "Kindred" featured on the *Sessanta E.P.P.P.* with Puscifer and Primus. The single is available as a limited-edition 7-inch vinyl, featuring an etching of the band's logo on the B-side.
A New Dawn for A Perfect Circle
The release of "Starless" signals a fresh phase for A Perfect Circle, with frontman Maynard James Keenan expressing his excitement about debuting the new track live in the UK. He noted that while he's eager to share the recordings, their songs gain a new dimension when performed live. Guitarist Billy Howerdel described the songwriting process for "Starless," stating that while some songs take years to develop, this particular track came together swiftly, as if it had always existed. The single was recorded at Howerdel's Lankershim Ranch Studio and produced by Howerdel himself, with mixing handled by Matty Green, known for his work with artists like U2 and Florence + the Machine. Josh Freese, a returning collaborator on drums, also features on the track. Freese rejoined the band in late 2023, having previously been a member at various points since 1999. The band's musical style in "Starless" is characterized by its dynamic shifts, moving between powerful, guitar-driven sections and more delicate, intricate passages, a hallmark of their established sound.
Anticipation Builds for UK and European Tour
The release of "Starless" is strategically timed to coincide with A Perfect Circle's upcoming tour, which begins with dates in the UK and Europe. This marks the band's first tour in these regions in eight years, significantly heightening fan anticipation. Maynard James Keenan specifically mentioned his eagerness to perform the new material live in the UK, indicating that the band's live performances are integral to how their songs evolve and connect with audiences. The band first emerged in 1999 and quickly established themselves in the alternative rock scene with their debut album *Mer de Noms* in 2000. That album achieved platinum status and included notable tracks such as "Judith," "3 Libras," and "The Hollow," solidifying their reputation for creating music that is both critically acclaimed and commercially successful. Their subsequent albums, including *Thirteenth Step* (2003) and *eMOTIVe* (2004), further cemented their status as a prominent force in the genre. The release of "Starless" and the accompanying tour are expected to generate considerable buzz, potentially drawing both long-time fans and new listeners to experience the band's evolving sound.
The current time in the UK is 6:48 AM on Thursday, May 28, 2026. The release of "Starless" on May 27, 2026, falls within the specified timeframe for reporting on recent music news.