PURPENDICULAR

It was something like a test case when this album was released, in these following points. First, can Deep Purple survive without Ritchie Blackmore? The band decided to hire ex Dixie Dregs player: Steve Morse. Second, will the style of Steve Morse find its perfect match with the existing music of Deep Purple. Well, actually without Ritchie the band had proved still being good when Tommy Bolin replaced him with "Come Taste The Band" which in fact it became one of my favorite albums by Deep Purple. Steve Morse, we can taste him during the tenure with Dixie Dregs as well as Kansas.

Twenty-eight years after the band's inception, Deep Purple venture into the most adventurous album of their storied career. With guitar virtuoso Steve Morse replacing legendary Ritchie Blackmore (his second departure from the band), fans get the breadth of Morse's influences. The music horizon goes into uncharted beats like the finger-snapping Hey Ciso and Rosa's Cantina, and the acoustic-flavored Scottish highlander feel of The Aviator. The track like Sometimes I Feel Like Screaming is one of their best songs in years and it became popular in some radio stations. It begins with a soft acoustic intro before being rocked up to the turbo-charged chorus full of lyrical wit. A Touch Away introduces fans to the band's first true ballad, a lovely piece of acoustic summertime fare. What probably is like many people's favorite is the "Ted The Mechanic" which has powerful riffs and energetic grooves.

Some people reckon that "Purpendicular" is the most progressive rock album by Deep Purple. I find it hard to come into this consclusion, however, I believe that this is a very good album be Deep Purple. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW