DEEP PURPLE IN ROCK

Quintessential. This is the best word I have for this legendary record. Probably the most recognizable album by Deep Purple for the general public and probably their most well-known cover art. This album was first in many aspects: the first album recorded with the two newcomers Ian Gillan and Roger Glover, comprising the Mark II lineup alongside Ritchie Blackmore, Ian Paice, and the magnificent Jon Lord. It is the first really heavy album by the band and one of the first really hard rocking proto-metal albums and their breakthrough in Europe. It is also an album that introduced the longer song form for this genre with the absolutely legendary 'Child in Time'.

No more psychedelia, just heavy and loud, a direction that each band member agreed is the right one for Purple. The sessions have obviously resulted in the creation of some of the most iconic rock songs ever recorded. 'Speed King' and 'Bloodsucker' are two stark examples of this new musical direction, fast, heavy, loud, and enjoyable head-bangers. Tremendous, big and memorable riffs, masterful playing from each instrumentalist, and frantic screams from Gillan - what else would anyone want from these guys? Then comes 'Child in Time' which really needs no introduction - it is simply essential.

Side two is weaker in terms of resonation and overall sound quality. Here, the band let the music flow more freely and to more unconventional directions, if the opposite word was to be applied for side one. 'Flight of the Rat' is a more traditional rock song with crazy solo moments from Lord, Blackmore, and Paice. 'Into the Fire' almost feels like a proto-groove metal, a song written by Glover as a warning against drugs. 'Living Wreck' was almost left out of the album but it obviously made the final cut and for good, a decent riff and nice vocals by Gillan, topped by a darker solo by Blackmore played through an octave pedal. 'Hard Lovin' Man' is more of a jam, and something that sounds like the blueprint for many NWOBHM songs. Finally, the non-album single 'Black Night' is fairly well-known and beloved by many fans of DP.

Each member is absolutely in control of everything they do, the record is stunning and 'one of heavy metal's defining albums' - simply a classic album that does not necessarily display the 'prog' sensibility but has the progressive elements well-imbued within the overall sound and the impression that the record leaves.