GEMINI SUITE

It seems that this is a rather unknown album from Deep Purple, since it only has 2 ratings thus far. This is probably because, as described on the album's booklet, this was well put down, since the band didn't want to get an image of being a symphonic-classical act. In fact, this was released around the time of "Deep Purple In Rock" which clearly states the direction that they wanted (Rock).

In overall the solo parts of this suite are amazing. Blackmore, Glover and Paice shine specially. The organ solo of Lord drags a bit, but it's very good as well. The first movement consists of Blackmore's solo and Lord's solo. The second movement begins with the strings. Then we have Gillan's part which is performed well, although the lyrics are kind of silly (Boongaloo and now I feel alright... like rock and roll). The last part of his singing is one of my all-time favorites because we got only the orchestra, the bass and the drums backing him, and no lead instruments (Guitar, Keys). It sounds a bit like the moody blues. The second movements ends with Glover's solo. The third movements begins with Ian Gillan's battle with the percussion section of the orchestra. Great stuff! Then the final part of the suite is an interplay between the orchestra and the band. It's more question-answer than a fusion.

A great show of all members, with an ok interplay between the group and orchestra. The quality of the sound is not so good though. 4 stars.

Edit (July 7, 2009): corrected some grammatical mistakes.