Listen: Peter Frampton Outlines First Original Album in 16 Years 'Carry The Light,' Shares Tom Petty-Inspired Single Featuring Benmont Tench

Listen: Peter Frampton Outlines First Original Album in 16 Years ‘Carry The Light,’ Shares Tom Petty-Inspired Single Featuring Benmont Tench

March 17, 2026

Photo: Lynn Goldsmith

For the first time in over a decade and a half, virtuoso guitarist Peter Frampton is preparing for the release of a new collection of original rock music. Titled Carry the Light, the 10-track presentation was co-written with The Humble Pie originalist’s son, Julian Frampton, and features guest appearances from Bill Evans, Graham Nash, Benmont Tench, Tom Morello, Sheryl Crow and H.E.R., and is due on May 15 via UMe. The initial single, “Buried Treasure,” is out now.

Speaking about his latest endeavour, Frampton comments, “The Carry the Light album is the first new music from me in 16 years. It was one of my most enjoyable projects ever. I got to work with my son Julian—writing and producing together. A first of many for us, I’m sure.”

According to the official press release, the concept behind the impending record is rooted in present-day reflections, boasting the challenges, change and connections that have informed the blanket of time. At 75 years old, Frampton seeks an avenue to share wisdom and offer listeners something they can return to through deeply personal documentation of a father and son engaging in shared creative work.

The album’s engineer and co-producer, Chuck Ainlay, said, “The songs are just so poignant, and his voice has matured in a way that really delivers what he’s trying to get across.”

Today’s preview, “Buried Treasure,” features Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers keyboardist, Tench, and is “a tribute to the late Tom Petty. The track honors the SiriusXM radio show of the same name that Petty curated and hosted for 15 years, with lyrics crafted entirely from Petty’s song titles. Frampton personally sought out Tench to add his signature style to the Petty homage.”

In addition to Tench’s contributions, other featured guests include Evans’ saxophone across two tracks, “Can You Take Me There” and “Tinderbox,” Nash’s harmonies on “I’m Sorry Elle,” Morello’s added intensity via “Lions at the Gate,” Crows’ voice atop “Breaking the Mold,” and H.E.R.’s guitar on instrumental “Islamorada.”

Carry the Light will arrive in various formats, including CD, 180-gram yellow vinyl, and digital formats in stereo, hi-res audio, and immersive Dolby Atmos.

Pre-order/ save Carry the Light.

Listen to “Buried Treasure” below.