‘90s rock supergroup surprises fans with new single before 2026 tour: ‘Absolutely chuffed’
The band founded by Maynard James Keenan and Billy Howerdel has more than 30 dates scheduled this year.
Liam Carter 
Fans of Maynard James Keenan, the creative force behind Tool, are once again looking toward A Perfect Circle. The rock supergroup, founded in 1999 by Keenan and guitarist Billy Howerdel of Ashes Divide, is back with fresh material just as they embark on a massive 2026 tour.
New Music for the Road
The band surprised listeners with their latest single, “Starless,” released on May 27. It marks the first standalone track from the group in eight years, following the 2018 album “Eat the Elephant” and its singles “Disillusioned,” “TalkTalk,” and “So Long and Thanks for All the Fish.”
While the group contributed “Kindred” to the Sessanta E.P.P.P. in 2024—a collaborative project celebrating Keenan's 60th birthday— “Starless” stands out as a unique addition to their catalog. Written by Keenan and Howerdel earlier this year at Lankershim Ranch Studio, the track also features veteran drummer Josh Freese.
Touring and Feedback
Keenan expressed genuine excitement about taking the new music on the road, telling Blabbermouth that he is “absolutely chuffed” to debut the track for international crowds. Howerdel added that while some songs take years to refine, “Starless” came together with a quick, organic energy.
The band’s overseas trek kicks off June 3 in London, with stops planned across Europe including Germany, Italy, and France. Following a summer hiatus, the group returns in November for a leg covering Mexico, Argentina, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand. A special U.S. appearance is scheduled for December 19 at the Neal S. Blaisdell Arena in Honolulu.
A Legacy of Sound
Rounding out the current lineup alongside Keenan, Howerdel, and Freese are guitarist James Iha of Smashing Pumpkins and bassist Matt McJunkins of The Beta Machine and Eagles of Death Metal. While there is no official word on a full-length follow-up to their four previous albums, the latest single is hitting the mark with critics.
As noted by Stereogum, “Starless” captures the quintessential A Perfect Circle vibe: “proggy, heavy, melodious, malevolent,” according to writer Chris DeVille. Whether a full album follows or not, 205focus readers can certainly enjoy the new sound as the band hits the stage this year.
