"We are thrilled beyond words to welcome The Who to Universal Republic," said a statement issued by Mel Lewinter, the label's chairman and CEO. "They are truly one of the quintessential rock bands of all time. Larger than life, never compromising--The Who's profound insight and willingness to push the musical envelope embodies everything vital about the indispensable music culture they helped spawn."

According to a press release, "Endless Wire" will include new tracks, "as well as music culled from a 29 minute operatic work, described by The Who’s co-founder Pete Townshend as a mini-opera inspired by his novella 'The Boy Who Heard Music.'" The book is available online at Townshend's website.

All of the songs that appear on "Wire & Glass," an EP recently issued by The Who (available in the US only as an import), will turn up on the forthcoming album.

The Who hasn't issued a new studio set since 1982's "It's Hard." The sole remaining founding members of the group are guitarist/singer Townshend and frontman Roger Daltrey.

Original Who bassist John Entwistle died of a cocaine-induced heart attack in 2002 at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, where the band was preparing for a North American tour that was scheduled to launch three days later. Daltrey and Townshend canceled the first two shows, but ultimately forged ahead with the outing. Original drummer Keith Moon died of a drug overdose in 1978.

In September, The Who's first world tour in 20 years will touch down in North America; the itinerary is below. The band's touring lineup will include drummer Zak Starkey (son of Ringo Starr), guitarist Simon Townshend (Pete Townshend's brother), bassist Pino Palladino and keyboardist John Bundrick.