RISING

For those of you who were there when this second album was released, must have been aware how legendary this album is. It's not the news about Deep Purple breaking up that mattered at that time but the fact that in fact Ritchie Blackmore could establish a powerful rock band as great as Deep Purple. The debut album in itself was an excellent album. The follow up "Rising" is in fact stronger and much more solid musically. The sound is not something close with Deep Purple especialy with Tony Carey's keyboard which does not seem similar with Jon Lord's. Surprisingly, the new sound of keyboard has even made the music of Rainbow is quite unique compared to other bands.

"Tarot Woman" kicks off the album wonderfully with great keyboard solo. In fact, when I was a student, I kept playing this intro part just before I went to school because the sound is so rocking and it motivated me to go to school. What a great old days! The music that follows the keyboard solo is marvelous and t's so rocking. "Run With the Wolf" is also an excellent hard rocker followed nicely with "Startstruck" which has beautiful guitar riffs.

What makes this album is so special is "Stargazer" which has a fabulous drum solo as opening. To be honest this was my first experience listening to how dazzling the drumwork by Cozy Powell is. It's totally amazing! The blast of music follows and the song enters a great vocal line that sings: "High noon / Oh Id sell my soul for water / Nine years worth / Of breakin my back. Theres no sun in the shadow of the wizard / See how he glides / Why hes lighter than air" .. oh my God! What a rockin' style here! Since then, I admired Cozy (RIP) as one of the best rock drummers in the world. And .. "Stargazer" is so powerful and has become my long time favorite.

"A Light In The Back" is also another great composition. Oh yeah, Ritchie is a guitar hero .. but what he has done here with this album is that he gives his colleagues a chance to perform their best. Ronnie James Dio best contribution for Rainbow had reached its climax through this album!

It's a MUST for those of you who love vintage hard rock music. This is one of the best!!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW

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