I have recently rediscovered Deep Purple, if you could call it that. I've always been aware of them but now I am finding a new interest or respect. On certain lists like "best vocalists" or "best keyboards", I've never seen ian Gillian or Jon Lord. After some recent listening sessions I have to ask why. On the Live in Japan Gillian's vocal talent is incredible. OK, most of it is on the verge, or is, screaming, but it's good none the less. And Lord's keyboard's are great. Anyone know how he makes his sound? It's almost like he runs his keys through a fuzz box or something. I also have to give props to Ian Paice's drum work. Of course, Ritchie is always good. It is my recent discovery of Blackmore Night that prompted some of my going back and listening to some of Blackmore's earlier work. Deep Purple I just found impressive again. Blackmore's work in Blackmore Night with the various acoustic instruments has also given me a new found respect for his talent. I am definitely not one to normally recommend a DVD for music but if anyone has any interest in Blackmore Night, I'd highly recommend their DVD Castles & Dreams. It is a double disc set for under $20.00 and is full of extras as well as an incredible concert. The DVD offers your choice of DD, DTS or PCM 2 channel. It's high quality and you really get a feel for what the band is about.
So am I on a high from hearing some old jams that haven't been on my system in a while or is DP members not given their proper respect? Is Lord overlooked because he rocks out and makes weird noises with his keyboard? The band still uses symphonic chord progression. What about Hendrix, he is a guitar hero, yet he made quite a bit of noise with his instrument. Listen to Gillian on Child In Time, now that's rock vocals. Oh well, I rest my case, your turn to state the case.