Uriah Heep to release new studio CD

LOS ANGELES, June 18 (UPI) -- Noise/Sanctuary Records said Wednesday the iconic British rock band Uriah Heep is to release its first new studio album in nearly 10 years this summer.

Recorded in 2007, "Wake the Sleeper" is set for release Aug. 26.

This is the band's first studio album without its longstanding original drummer, Lee Kerslake, who was forced to leave the band due to poor health in January 2007.

Acclaimed drummer Russell Gilbrook has since taken Kerslake's place, the label said.

"'Wake the Sleeper' is an album we are incredibly proud of, and one that we hope the fans will see as one of Uriah Heep's best," guitarist Mick Box said in a statement.

Uriah Heep has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide and toured in 52 countries, its label noted.

The band is currently on tour in Europe and intends to tour the United States in early 2009.