A Perfect Circle fans have reason to be excited — the band is actively working on new material following the release of their latest single “Starless” in late May 2026.
In a new interview with Kevin Kellam of Minneapolis radio station 93X, guitarist and primary songwriter Billy Howerdel gave a positive update on the band’s creative progress while on their current European tour.
“There’s more [music] underway. And in the spirit of soft deadlines, I’m not gonna give you the date, but we’re working toward something.”
Howerdel acknowledged the challenges of writing and recording while touring:
“We’re on tour. It’s hard to get solid things done when you’re out here… So to get real cracking on to the new album, it’s gonna be… I need a couple more of these days to line up over the next tour.”
He also spoke warmly about his long-standing creative chemistry with vocalist Maynard James Keenan (Tool, Puscifer):
“I feel more creative with him [than I do with other musicians]… When it’s time to work, we’re kind of in it. And he’s got a great work ethic… Once the train starts rolling, it’s rolling.”
“Starless” was recorded at Howerdel’s Lankershim Ranch Studio in Studio City, California. It was written earlier this year, produced by Howerdel, and mixed by Matty Green (U2, Florence + The Machine). Longtime collaborator Josh Freese plays drums on the track. A limited-edition 7-inch vinyl single is currently available via Revolver.
Background: A Perfect Circle, formed in 1999 by Howerdel and Keenan, released their most recent full-length album Eat The Elephant in 2018. The band has maintained a dedicated following with their atmospheric, emotionally charged alternative rock sound across albums like Mer de Noms (2000), Thirteenth Step (2003), and eMOTIVe (2004).
This update is encouraging for fans who have waited years for new A Perfect Circle material. Billy Howerdel’s comments suggest a focused but realistic approach — balancing touring commitments with creative work. With Maynard James Keenan’s legendary work ethic and the band’s history of delivering high-quality releases, expectations are high for whatever comes next. The current European tour should provide good momentum for the next chapter.
