Deep Purple Remixes & Expands LP

Deep Purple's “Rapture of the Deep” is getting a much-deserved moment in the limelight with its upcoming 20th-anniversary reissue. Originally released in 2005, the album did not initially embed itself in the pantheon of Deep Purple classics despite its solid sales and masterful compositions. Its standing has been somewhat overshadowed in the decades since, seen as a quietly significant point in the band's storied history rather than a landmark release. This reissue, set for August 29, 2025, seeks to reshape that narrative, presenting the album anew with a complete remix and remaster, refined artwork, and additional material, providing fans and newcomers alike with a fresh lens through which to appreciate its artistry.

The reissue of “Rapture of the Deep” is particularly significant, as it's said to mark a pivotal time for Deep Purple. Bassist Roger Glover has shared that the band was navigating a tricky phase in their career when the album was conceived. With no record label backing them and the pressures of a changing music industry landscape, the band members found themselves in unfamiliar territory. Yet, this period of uncertainty catalyzed a creative burst, leading to the production of an album rich in sharp songwriting and masterful instrumentation — a project that bassist Glover describes as having been initially met with interest, only to fade from mainstream consciousness over time.

The revisitation of this album involved detailed analog mastering at the prestigious Chameleon Studios in Hamburg and a new mix supervised by Glover himself. The result is an evolution of the original record, enhanced with clarity and depth that may not have been fully realized in its initial release. As Glover notes, “It's a new album now to me,” suggesting that even those deeply familiar with the band's catalog may find new appreciation within these reimagined tracks. The anniversary edition includes a bonus disc comprising previously unreleased studio jams and rehearsals, offering listeners a rare, unfiltered glimpse into the band's creative process. Among these newfound treasures is “Closing Note,” an instrumental piece by guitarist Steve Morse, recorded during the original sessions but only now being made public.

This release comes at a time when Deep Purple is celebrating a string of recent successes, having achieved several No. 1 album placements in the 21st century. The original release period of “Rapture of the Deep” marked the beginning of a resurgence for the band, one that would see them defy the odds and re-establish their boutique in a reshaped music industry. The broader narrative surrounding these reissued tracks not only highlights their overlooked potential but also frames them as the roots of the band's enduring success in later years.

The reissue will be available across multiple formats, including digital, CD digipak, and various vinyl editions, such as the 3LP vinyl, with an exclusive sky-blue version for collectors. This diversified offering ensures that Deep Purple fans can connect with the music in a manner that suits their listening style and collection preferences. Additionally, the new album artwork contributes a visual refresh that complements the enhanced sonic experience promised by this edition.

Through this reissue, label earMUSIC along with Deep Purple aim to give “Rapture of the Deep” a second life, repositioning it within the band's catalog where it can be appreciated anew. The inclusion of unreleased materials serves not just as a historical record but as a bridge to ongoing relevance, emphasizing the timeless quality of Deep Purple's contribution to rock music. This reimagining of “Rapture of the Deep” is an invitation to both existing devotees and new generations to explore the depths of a pivotal but underappreciated chapter in the band's history, ensuring its riffs, rhythms, and lyrical insights resonate far beyond its original release amidst the ever-evolving rock genre landscape.