Veteran guitarist Mike Campbell is preparing a new chapter with his band The Dirty Knobs. The group has announced a brand-new album titled Mission of Mercy, scheduled for release on June 12, 2026.
The record continues Campbell’s work outside of the legendary Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, where he spent decades as a guitarist and co-writer of many classic songs. With The Dirty Knobs, however, Campbell has embraced a rougher, more direct rock-and-roll style that allows him to explore new songwriting ideas and perform as the band’s frontman.
The upcoming album was produced by longtime collaborator George Drakoulias alongside Martin Pradler. It also includes guest appearances from Kate Pierson and Morgane Stapleton, adding additional textures to the band’s guitar-driven sound.
Campbell described the new project as both a continuation of the band’s established sound and a step forward creatively.
“Mission of Mercy is an action-packed collection of tunes that continue the vibe we established as well as some new directions in the songwriting,” Campbell explained in a statement announcing the album.
He also emphasized that the music captures the raw energy the group has developed onstage.
He said the album is “full-throttle Knobs from start to finish,” adding that the band is eager to bring the new songs to audiences during their upcoming concerts.
The Dirty Knobs lineup includes guitarist Chris Holt, bassist Lance Morrison, and drummer Steve Ferrone, another veteran who previously played alongside Campbell in the Heartbreakers. Together, the band has built a reputation for gritty rock performances that blend classic influences with Campbell’s signature melodic guitar work.
To preview the album, the group has already released the first single, “I Remember.” The song offers listeners an early look at the tone of the record, which mixes driving guitars with reflective storytelling.
Track Listing for
Mission of Mercy
- No Regrets
- Let Me Back in My Dream
- My Mama Told Me
- I Remember
- More Than Gold (feat. Morgane Stapleton)
- Mission of Mercy
- Bongo Mania (feat. Kate Pierson)
- Wrecking Ball
- Done to Me
- Armageddon
- Vicious Hangover
- Vagrant
Touring Plans for 2026
Campbell and The Dirty Knobs also plan to take the new album on the road later this year. Their summer tour begins on July 7, giving fans the chance to hear the new material performed live.
Another major highlight of Campbell’s 2026 schedule will take place on September 12 in Atlanta, when he performs with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra for a special evening celebrating the music of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.
For Campbell, the new album represents both continuity and reinvention — continuing his lifelong dedication to rock while pushing forward with a band that allows him to explore a different musical identity.
With Mission of Mercy, Campbell and The Dirty Knobs appear ready to continue building their own legacy, separate from the towering shadow of his previous band while still honoring the spirit of classic American rock.
