Deep Purple singer Ian Gillan is to release a new solo LP.

Entitled 'One Eye To Morocco', the 12-track record is Gillan's first album of new material since 1997. It will be available from March 23 on the earMUSIC label.

Earlier this year, fans voted Gillan as the fourth greatest voice in rock, while the group's song 'Smoke On The Water' has been judged to have the best riff in guitar music on a number of occasions.

Deep Purple have announced a full band tour.