MADE IN JAPAN

Well , if there is one live album that was the blueprint for all live albums to come , we are down to it! Legend has struck! And this is really the archetypal album to show that a band can be different in the studio and on stage. This vinyl of mine became almost transparent as it was so worn out from having played it so often. However , I must say nowadays I look at it now a bit embarassingly! Although still an excellent album, I will never deny the influence it had on me (and almost every teens in the 70's) , but clearly as a mature 40+ man, I can see that the album is a little self-indulgent. These lenghty jams/improvs are fighting with Allman Brother's Band for top place in complacency! I can understand where the critics from Punk fans came. But nevermind the critics this album is fun , and that is what counts!

All of the tracks are real classics and can really tell you what powers this band had especially when Lord and Blackmore improvise, sometimes forraying into Classical themes. Only The Mule is less interesting containing the obligatory drum solo, but even then Paicey manages to get you interested.

This album now comes as two Cd set with a second disc containing the encores: Speed King Balck Night and a superb and kick-arse rendition of Little Richard's Lucille. Simply devastating !