THE BATTLE RAGES ON...

I read that this album was planned to be recorded with Joe Lynn Taylor, but the record company insisted on Gillan's return. This clearly did not contribute to the restoration of good relations between Blackmore and Gillan, perhaps this was reflected in the actual title of the album, although Blackmore later sarcastically called it "The cattle grazes on". We can only guess what this album would have sounded like with Joe Lynn Turner's vocals. Probably, it would have been a continuation of the same AOR in the style of late Rainbow and Slaves&Masters. Not so bad, although not the best that both bands created.

However, this album is not a masterpiece either. This is typical hard rock without any special emotions and sophistication, that is, the formula of the late Rainbow has still been preserved. Only the magnificent luxurious Enya stands out from the crowd, where DP briefly go beyond the style. The lyrics there are also original. But this is their only attempt to expand the musical framework. Jon Lord's keyboards are barely audible, and a number of songs are potential radio hits with catchy melodies and a minimum of instrumental flourishes. The energetic title track of the same name is especially successful, as are the driving "Time to Kill" and "Lick It Up". The wonderful minor-key semi-ballad "Solitaire" is also worth mentioning. Yes, it's not bad, but that's not the only reason we love Deep Purple. Three stars without any compromises.