COME TASTE THE BAND

Much better than its predecessor, "Come Taste The Band" was the swan song of the classic era Purple.

Blackmore was replaced by excellent guitarist Tommy Bolin who had a difficult task filling the key position of a heavy rock guitar hero. He did his job well and in some parts his slide guitar solos are more than excellent. The songs are still short, almost radio- friendly, and quite accessible for listening (although not entirely on the first listen!). The style can be described as progressive hard rock with funky elements present in Hughues' strong and groovy bass parts and Lord's synthesizers solos (replacing partly the signature Hammond organ). The playing is strong and confident, although one can notice the lack of original ideas. The ending part of the album takes you instrumentally closer to typical prog rock with extended solos and slow tempo moods ("This Time Around"/"Owed To G"/"You Keep On Moving").

Hardly an essential album in any way, it is a worthy record that should be checked in order to taste the band for the last time during their break-up.

PERSONAL RATING: 3,5/5

P.A. RATING: 3/5