Deep Purple Set To Release 'Rapture Of The Deep' On Nov. 1, 2005

(Eagle Records) - Still finding new meaning in a medium they all but single-handedly created, the legendary DEEP PURPLE is poised to release their latest recording project November 1st entitled, "RAPTURE OF THE DEEP." On the heels of a world tour wrapping up "Bananas," their 2003 release, "RAPTURE OF THE DEEP" marks DEEP PURPLE's debut on Eagle Records, an imprint of Eagle Rock Entertainment.

Many people have grown up on the phenomenon called DEEP PURPLE, but there are still pre-pubescent teenagers spanning the world many times over, screaming their heads off as if DEEP PURPLE was a new band putting out a first album for the first time. Worldwide, the river of Purple fans indeed runs very deep. Purple fans perpetually pledge allegiance – loyal, accepting, even foaming for new music – learning all the words to the entire catalogue and often attempting to out-sing the band.

Devotees have surrendered to the rapture, keeping the apparition alive through nearly four decades of recording and touring. While staples such as "Smoke on the Water" and "Highway Star" continue to spawn many careers and introductions to the world of rock and roll, "RAPTURE OF THE DEEP" is modern, witty, penetrating, fearless and most certainly now! While classics in their own right, DEEP PURPLE is here to stay.

Eagle Records is proud and excited to add Deep Purple to their roster and to release "RAPTURE OF THE DEEP" in the US & Canada. "Deep Purple is a monumental band, and Rapture of the Deep will only add to their legacy," said Mike Carden, Executive V.P. and President of North American Operations for Eagle Rock Entertainment. "The band's career continues to be extraordinary, and we think this record will provide fans with what they expect from Deep Purple."

"RAPTURE OF THE DEEP" also marks the sophomore disc for Purple with renowned producer Michael Bradford (Uncle Kracker, Kid Rock, Madonna, Terence Trent D'Arby, Anita Baker, etc.), producer, engineer and music aficionado – playing bass, guitar, drums & keyboards. Bradford is very humble about working with childhood heroes Deep Purple. "In the time between recording "Bananas" and "Rapture Of The Deep", I have had the unique experience of having my relationship with DEEP PURPLE change from that of an admiring fan, to true friendship and mutual respect," says Michael Bradford. "The band is playing and creating at the top of their form, and I am proud to have been involved in the experience of recording these two excellent albums. DEEP PURPLE is truly one of the greatest rock bands of all time."