Blondie Announce New Album ‘High Noon,’ Clem Burke’s Final Recording

After nearly a decade away from the studio, Blondie is set to release a new album titled High Noon on February 26. This record stands as a significant milestone for the band, not only marking their first collection of new material in nine years but also serving as the final recording featuring the late Clem Burke, the band's co-founding drummer who passed away in April 2025 at age 70.

Burke’s dynamic drumming had long been a defining element of Blondie’s sound, fueling both their chart-topping singles and energetic live performances. His presence on High Noon lends a poignant layer to the album, underscoring the end of an era for the iconic group. The band’s frontwoman, Debbie Harry, has indicated that the new work captures the essence of Blondie’s varied musical journey while reflecting their current artistic identities.

High Noon demonstrates a rich tapestry of styles that fuse rock and punk foundations with dance rhythms and Latin influences, illustrating the band’s willingness to expand their sonic palette. This eclectic approach is supported by a roster of notable collaborators, including Johnny Marr of The Smiths, Glen Matlock formerly of the Sex Pistols, Zach Condon of Beirut, and Lucius members Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig. Marr notably contributed both songwriting and guitar work to the album’s lead single, “Spectral Eyes,” which has already been released ahead of the full album.

The creative process for High Noon began in 2022 with recording sessions held in New York City. Producer John Congleton, who previously worked with Blondie on their 2017 album Pollinator, returned to oversee these sessions. Additional production and mixing were provided by David Wrench, further shaping the album’s sound.

High Noon comprises 13 tracks featuring contributions from various band members and collaborators. Guitarist Chris Stein penned “Heartbreak Kid,” while Glen Matlock wrote “Sleepwalking.” The album also revisits “Little Metal Drummer,” a track originally recorded in 1981 by the band’s late keyboardist Jimmy Destri for his solo project, with both Harry and Burke having performed on the original version. Another track, “Man Who Had No Face,” was co-written by Stein and Harry, underscoring the continued collaborative spirit within the band.

Stein reflected on the band’s longevity and the journey that has led to this latest release, emphasizing gratitude toward their fanbase for decades of support. The album’s diverse track list showcases the band’s commitment to blending their past influences with contemporary sounds, making High Noon a testament to Blondie’s enduring relevance in the evolving music landscape.

As Blondie prepares to share this new chapter, High Noon stands as a tribute to their storied history and a farewell to one of their foundational members. The album promises to offer listeners a complex and vibrant listening experience, merging the band’s punk roots with modern musical explorations.

While details on further tour plans or promotional activities remain limited, High Noon’s release is poised to reestablish Blondie’s presence in the music world, honoring the legacy of Clem Burke and the band’s ongoing creative evolution.