Review: Deep Purple '=1' (hard rock)

Join Pete Pardo & Rick La Bonte' for a review of the 23rd studio album from hard rock legends Deep Purple, '=1'. #deeppurple
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[@johndelaurentis9294]

I absolutely love this album! It's a return to that classic Deep Purple sound.

[@AroundtheDial-rj7tp]

keyboardist Don Airey and new guitarist Simon McBride really shine on this album. Simon McBride brings more guitar fire power that was missing from the previous albums. Ian Gillian vocal range has limits but his vocals are fine. Overall, I think it’s a solid record for a legacy band.

[@Dibbdroid]

Legacy band? Tosh. They're a working band

[@martymartin2894]

U mean ancient 😂😂

[@wolf1977]

Gillan's vocals sound worse to me than on recent DP albums, like he's lost a bit more of it recently. IMO McBride can't hold a candle to Morse in terms of sheer guitar chops (and also songwriting) but that's not to say that he isn't a fine player - my issue isn't with him (it's the songs)

[@micolsen9824]

​@@teec3557agreed.

[@ДмитрийЗайденберг]

Could Steve Morse ever play a solo as atrocious as the one McBride plays on "A Bit On The Side"?.. I guess, no.

[@musicofthemountains8968]

Love the album. My favorite song might also be Now You’re Talkin. It’s a wild and wonderful song that reminds me of the Gillan band. A Bit On The Side is fantastic and Simon’s solo is so good and a bit outrageous. It’s my favorite solo from him on the album. Bleeding Obvious is a sensational number and the guitar solo on that one reminds me of something Blackmore may have done on the Rainbow albums with Dio. Love Ian Paice’s performance on this album too and all the great grooves. Lots of firepower on the album and the songs are engaging and memorable.

[@danielanderson6450]

This is a fantastic album. I wasn’t sure at first, but it’s a grower and the more you listen the better it gets. My favourites are ‘A Bit On The Side’ and ‘No Money To Burn’.

[@tinostabile3256]

This album sounds great. Love the three singles. Cannot wait to receive my copy. God bless Purple. Long live the Purple wonder.

[@LeatherRebel75]

Deep Purple made an inspired choice by bringing Simon McBride aboard. He riffs like a mutha, he shreds, and he plays really nice with Don Airey. McBride really brought some fresh new fire on this new album. This album is a blast to listen to. And yeah, that closing track kicked my @$$.

[@wolf1977]

I agree that "Bleeding Obvious" is the best track - bleeding obviously!

[@ronnienose8608]

Pete, Roger Glover has said that =1 encapsulates the spirit and unity of the band, that, no matter what changes the band has gone through they have a unity, a whole as one unit. Personally, I do like the cover, the inside is quite busy as were the covers of the singles, so I think that they wanted the stark contrast of the album cover so the formula that =1 stands out.

[@teec3557]

I never really cared about covers though In Rock is iconic. I agree I like the simplicity and minimalist nature of the album cover

[@SatWiseJanx]

=1 is a brilliant title when you hear the backstory. Gillan's neighbor in Portugal is a mathematician and asked him to come up with a long, complex equation that = 1, signifying with all the changes in the band, even with the new guy it's still Deep Purple

[@TheRealDannAlexander]

Overall a gooder for sure. Another welcome chapter in the Purple catalogue.

[@StrongLIfePower]

=1 is a rocking #1 Summer album!

[@crazyguy43]

This album rocks. Simon kicks ass, I think him and Don Airey are the highlights of this album, they are just stellar here. Ian I think still sounds great, he doesn't scream anymore, but he hasn't really done that since like Perfect Strangers. But he's still an amazing singer, and he uses his voice in such interesting and intelligent ways, and as always I LOVE his lyrics. Roger and Paicey are rock solid as always, and Ezrin's production is crisp and clear and perfectly mixed. Love this thing, I anticipate playing it over and over.

[@teec3557]

@teec3557 0 seconds ago @teec3557 The album suffers two fold: First the songwriting is not up to the quality of Purpendicular/Bananas/Now What . The riffs are not that memorable. That being said there are some good songs on this The second is a bigger problem: people claiming this is a return of Purple to the 70s. I just don’t see that at all. It sounds nothing like In Rock/Fireball/Macine Head. I think one of the reviewers said if you like WDWTWA you will love this album. This album sounds nothing WDWTWA which is full of growling Hammond dominated. Don Airey opened up with 3 synthesizer solos on this album and had 2-3,more later. That simply takes the punch and heaviness out of the songs which is a real shame The mixing by Ezin is very different than the 70s. Michael Bradford particularly on Bananas did a better job To highlight my points : Sharp Shooter - a Living Wreck/ Into the Fire wannabee though Morse had a couple of heavier riffs. First the riff: good tone by McBride. Lacking - the heavy growling low organ accompanying the guitar. The guitar comes out of both speakers. Just not present. The organ is lost in the mix. There is no ‘space’ or’air’ between the two instruments, rather it becomes lost meshed into the mix. It could have Ben more powerful heavier. Ezrin does good production with choruses Next, the verse. What is Airey doing? He plays way too high in the register losing the power of the song. Too much brightness. Finally, the solo. Airey just provided us with a third (3!) moog solo in a row! He then goes onto a couple of more later. I don’t mind synthesizer solos when they are done right and occasional, but this is not a return to classic Purple. Seriously, what is Airey doing? Deep Purple is a growling rhythm band and 9 times out of ten you wait in anticipation of an organ solo to complement the guitar solo. Too bad.

[@kenfrederick6223]

Good review. I love the Morse years. 'Sometimes I Feel Like Screaming" is an all-time favorite song of mine, but this new album sounds great as well. 🎸

[@bananenmus_tv1483]

I also love that song!

[@DrJimmy88]

Don Airey is fantastic. I was worried about Deep Purple after the loss of Jon Lord, but Don has carried on his spirit, honored the classic sound of Jon Lord, and put a lot of his own personality into it. He was truly an amazing choice. Don gets better on every album. He really stands out to me on =1.

[@micolsen9824]

I'm a huge fan of the Morse era. This album doesn't stray too far from that vibe. Personally, I'm digging it. Probably my favorite album since, Whoosh. 😊

[@fredrkane8481]

I loved "Now What." I loved "Infinite". I wasn't too impressed with "Woosh!". Skipped the covers album. This new album is what I've been waitin'' for! I dug every track on the disk. It started out with a bang and didn't end with a whimper! I'd say it's the best thing they've done this century. And the cover art... Hell, I like it. It proudly states: "No need to front if you got the goods!" As for the lack of personnel pics... That's why god gave us video! Thanks for all the cool reviews. I count on on Sea O' T to keep me up on where all the old cats are scratchin'.

[@kinesjl]

Absolutely love this album, Deep Purple is one of my favorite bands of all time and this album exceeded my expectations across the board. I don't care about album art, for me it's all about the music.

[@RobertsOnMyTurntable]

Received my purple vinyl version yesterday. Awesome, awesome, awesome 😊😊😊

[@steveludwig4200]

5 or 6 too many songs......Really only about 4 or 5 good songs on the album although "Lazy Sod" is their best new song since "Burn".

[@teec3557]

Totally agree. Too many songs too short. I’m not impressed by Ezrin. The first three albums incl Turning to Crime are big sounding albums. Something changed with Whoosh. Morse was the only one who had balls to confront Ezrin that he was muffling the sound and burying the guitar in the mix. Morse knows a bit about producing and mixing. The other guys just seem to say ‘Whatever Bob says’ which is a shame.

[@MetalMan73100]

The new DP album was released last Friday, I ordered it the following after learning about the release date. It hasn´t arrived in my mailbox yet, but I am hearing good things about it. Excellent review, guys!

[@RealJeffTidwell]

I kinda love the minimalistic, [almost] intentionally messy and simplistic album art. Befitting a band that couldn't possibly top themselves again. I mean that in a good way!

[@philjones45]

yes, agree.

[@crazyguy43]

I get the idea behind it, but it's not particularly interesting to look at.

[@hauskahirvi]

And the Beatles had the "White Album".

[@wolf1977]

@@hauskahirvi ...and to contrast Spinal Tap had Smell The Glove...😎

[@terryjohnson5275]

Absolutely loved the album on first play and its been getting better each subsequent listen, SImon McBride brings back the guitar sound more to the 70's but still keeps it very much in the present, Don's keyboard work is great as usual and I think it features sme of Roger's best bass work - Ian Paice will always be brilliant no matter what and god ,ove him, Ian Gillan is Ian Gillan, though you can just start to hear his age in some of his vocals.I have to say, though, its giving me the same vibe that Purpendicular did when introducing Steve Morse - the last 3 Ezrin albums have all been fantastic (though I still wince when Roadhouse Blues comes on) but I think this one tops them - I just hope they play a bunch of songs from it - and for me they could do the whole album - when I go see them live in November.

[@charlesdoyle7600]

This Deep Purple Album reminds me of old school MKII Deep Purple. McBride is a really great Guitar player.

[@paulgreenan4395]

A really great album,always loved the Steve Morse albums but this is right up there with their best.A mighty achievement

[@richard127gm]

According to a press release, the title "symbolizes the idea that in a world growing ever more complex, everything eventually simplifies down to a single, unified essence. Everything equals one."

[@SatWiseJanx]

That's a marketing spin. See my post about the origin 😎

[@paulharvey7223]

This album is a real grower and gets better and better. When I first heard it I wasn’t sure but now I love it . The quality of playing is amazing McBride really fits in. His solos with Airey are excellent. Favourite tracks so far , Now you’re talkin , Bleeding Obvious ( A prog sounding epic) Show Me and a bit on the side. I also love the live sounding “I’ll catch you” Im sure it’s about Ian’s late wife and is sung (live?) with real emotion .

[@magistersteveperkins]

Just saw them in Cincinnati, and they were amazing. You talk about the interplay between Don and Simon, and boy, was that on display! You watched consummate musicians creating live in front of you. And the album? I have listened to it nonstop since it came out in July. I can’t get enough.

[@Jackylone-]

Got it Friday, love it! Simon is a great addition to the band!!

[@nicholasrosebush6182]

Excellent record and i saw them last night. Tremendous. They really kick ass

[@PatKennedydon]

I wouldn't say I liked the album at first, actually, it took me 9 spins to like it, but the more I played it the more it grew on me, the last track is pure prog and brilliantly played. It's their best album since the '70s, is it as good as any in the '70s, no it's not but an excellent effort all round.

[@wolf1977]

I'm absolutely with you about not liking it at first & I have warmed to a few tracks but I'm not there yet (however only through two spins so...)🤷‍♂I think I'd agree that "Bleeding Obvious" is possibly the best track here

[@PatKennedydon]

Yes give it time, I was disappointed at first but it's a grower, and growers always get better and better over time. The only thing I'm disappointed with is the production, it's very compressed, the dynamic range is not utilised at all.

[@teec3557]

Erzin is overrated. Whoosh is more compressed which is a real shame because I think that album has some of their best material

[@stevetobin7495]

I love the simplicity of the çover

[@sempereye7291]

Phenomenal Purple. Thanks for the thorough review.

[@jonfargo7321]

I’ve got this album on constant repeat. Most songs I really enjoy while I’m warming up to the others. The phonics are fantastic and musicianship second to none. I’ve got my tickets for the Toronto show and can’t wait.

[@jonholland6067]

I wonder how many will be at Budweiser for yes and DP?

[@davidschecter5247]

Can't wait for my copy to arrive. Thanks for whetting my appetite even more!

[@denisespainhower2153]

Everyone appears excited about new guitarist Simon McBride. I recall many fans having the same opinion when Steve Morse joined the band with Perpendicular. I personally love that album so looking forward to this as another jolt for the bands inspiration.

[@thinlizzysupporter]

Simon McBride is a fabulous guitarist. His solo work, his playing in Don Airey's band and also on Ian Gillan's solo shows a few years ago proved without a doubt he was perfect for Purple.

[@matsetizar65]

=100%!

[@yurivogensen5438]

Love it. Can't stop listening to it.

[@sempereye7291]

Superb performance. Can’t stop listening. For me the minimalist CD/LP design stands out.

[@williamyoung5663]

I agree with everything you guys said. I'm blown away by this album. Yes the cover art is disappointing. I always thought the previous Ezrin albums were a little safe and a tad overproduced, especially Gillan's voice. But this is crisp and raw. With all respect to Steve who I worship. Simon brings that little ingredient that has the old Purple sound. When Roger played that little nod to Highway Star in the first few seconds of Show Me I new all was right with the world. Superb! Amazing! Fantastic!

[@steevenfrost]

Thanks Rick and Pete. I will buy this album and am excited to play it when it comes.💥💥💥

[@eltronics]

Loved the singles, I'll be getting this album soon!

[@purplesabbath]

receiving it Wednesday 💜💜💜

[@alketkellici6766]

I have two three songs that are typical Gillan type of songs that I could do without but it’s solid.

[@JoelPrice253]

Good album. Up there with Whoosh! "Bleeding Obvious" might be my favorite track.

[@darrenmaxwell1085]

I love this album, think it’s great! Not a bad song on it! And a lot of really good to great songs on it. They should be proud of it and hope it puts them back at the top of Rock & Roll!

[@MrMusic193]

OK, I agree. The new deep problem is great and I like the new guitarist but hey, let’s show some love to Steve Moorse. He did really good with his band if there’s any doubt check out the album abandon.

[@everts1698]

I love Deep Purple so I'm not always objective. The album is good but not exceptional. No comparison possible with Mark II albums which are wonderful. Morse was more technical and progressive than Mac Bride, who is more rock, that's the big difference.

[@CB-xr1eg]

Mac Bride? Come on maaaan. It's McBride. No need to be rude about his name.

[@CloseToTheEdge-Prog]

Looking forward to this.

[@thomasbeck2934]

I didn’t think I’d like Purple any more after their last throw away album and then Morse left. Boy am I glad I WAS WRONG! I was waiting on your review. Thanks!

[@martymartin2894]

I didn't like that woosh either it is so boring and samey.

[@CB-xr1eg]

@@martymartin2894 I think Thomas meant the covers album.

[@holydiver73]

Simon McBride has fit in perfectly, he’s bought a heaviness back to Purple that has been missing in recent years and this has also ensured Gillian’s vocals are edgier than they have been for years and I’ve not really heard Purple this hard hitting since The Battle Rages on. I love this album very much, but if anyone took a commission payment for that shitty cover, then they are an absolute bandit. 😂😂😂

[@gordy3714]

Simon and Don are outstanding. Love the variation in sound on the organ. The band really shine with Simon's metal guitar type edge.

[@tomsimmons7192]

Been looking forward to this review.

[@mattkanter1729]

Just got my copy .., on cassette! My first new cassette purchase since .., since the last millennium! Awesome

[@garyjoyce2160]

Pete and Rick. L / always a great passionate insightful episode. Thx to you both . 👍💯

[@wolf1977]

Agreed, even when I totally disagree. Rick's enthusiasm is catching - I feel like I have to wear a mask when watching his vids😃

[@shaunogle530]

A thoughtful and balanced review in which your affection for how the band has evolved shines through. The album is superb and connects with the band’s catalogue as far back as In Rock. Trademark Purple Patches across the songs. As an aside, there is a wonderful interview with Ian Gillen on Quboz (KZbin). Rick’s comparison with Uriah Heep’s Chaos and Colour is spot on. Simon is new wine in an old bottle and “Come Taste The Band” because it is good.

[@Rmesick-hm6yq]

They are coming to Saratoga. Can't wait.

[@daveswallow8351]

Really fresh sound with hints of the old MK2 Purple. Some great songs. No fault of Gillans and he is tremendous but feel the choruses fell a bit flat as he hasn't got the power to push through and heighten that stage of the song. But hey this is a great album and hats off to them all for still producing some great music.

[@dtwenty5114]

Hi Pete, love this new album, are the DP crew promoting this themselves? because it's everywhere rarely do I see a classic rock band get any exposure. Man Simone McBride has some tasty chops. Cheers

[@erikt2389]

How about props to those Gillan lyrics!! That wry sense of humor is back. Even in the latest interviews Gillan and Co. seem happier.

[@sabbracadabra7503]

Not crazy about the title or cover art, but the album itself went well beyond my expectations. I can see this easily being one of my favorite of the year. Everyone sounds great here, strong songs without a single bad track, and Don Airey really shines on this one.

[@lexpeters735]

Good discussion guys. I admit I was super sceptical about this after their intended goodbye album was a covers album. A genre I'm not fond of at all. When I was hearing the buzz about the upcoming new album I thought ; REALLY, another Deep Purple album? However after the glowing reviews, I finally gave it a listen for the first time today and was very impressed. It sounded fresh and punchy, with more grit emanating from Simon McBride. The classic sound is all over the record with littles touches and nuances that were reminiscent of their earlier classic songs. A very impressive album.

[@conzalez94]

Fantastic album for a band this old. Simon McBride and Don Airey are the stars but everyone does a great job. Amazing

[@NorsePJ]

I picked up Deep Purple's new album "= 1" last weekend. I must say, at first I was very sceptical about the new album, having viewed the Bob Ezrin produced albums as being very generic and coming across too similar. But kudos to the guys on the new album for hitting a new stride and sounding fantastic. I do think a lot of that is the new guy, Simon McBride. He is very reminiscent of a Blackmore kind of playing but technically a bit more gifted. Musically, Blackmore had the edge though with his gift of melody. What I'm hearing from the new album are touches of Blackmore, Morse and McBride touches in the soloing. It's wonderful to hear this. I would have loved some Bolin in there as well. Maybe next time? However, I do think it lacks catchy riffs and melodies. That's something Blackmore and Bolin were great at bringing to the table. For me, their best effort since the album "Abandon". I wouldn't be at all surprised if even Blackmore gave it a thumps-up. I went to a music shop and, believe it or not, they only had two copies available. Two!! I bought half of them. LOL!

[@richardhincemon]

😂 bought half of them lol. I saw Deep Purple in 72 terrible performance Blackmore's mood was not good 😢 Got to see them again on the Abandon tour 98 and they were brilliant 😊 you never know what is gonna happen with live shows !

[@NorsePJ]

@@richardhincemon I saw them in March 2001. It was great but, I could tell Jon Lord's heart wasn't really in it like before. But, of course, he did leave the band in the following year. Personally, my favourite line-ups have always been Mark III and IV with Mark I coming in third place. And I prefer Coverdale and Hughes. Still, I like all the incarnations of the band.

[@alfietomkins7829]

Only just got the new Deep Purple album after having the riff to Lazy Sod stuck in my head for over a week (best riff on the album), really enjoying this record. Stand outs so far are the 3 singles, Sharp Shooter, Show me, Bleeding Obvious, Now your talking. The album covers terrible but if you get the jewel case cd, swap the sleeve round, it's much better as an album cover

[@LarryFleetwood8675]

Strange that their last album had such an elaborate cover design, compared to this cheap awful design a five year old could've written this.

[@michael-pn9po]

Saw Purple with McBride twice last year - was mucho impressed- look forward to seeing them again later this year. Album bodes well for them continuing as long as they feel they are able. BTW McBride doesn’t smile on stage like Morse - he grins 😅.

[@ACrackInTheWall2006]

I just got this CD yesterday and have listened to it twice so far. I really like it.

[@leonmarkrodziewicz279]

My copy arrived this morning and I've played it 3 times already so really only just getting into it. Some really good stuff on this but I'll have to play it several more times to sort out favourites although currently I'm loving it all. Early stand outs are Show Me, Lazy Sod, Bleedin' Obvious. No dates anywhere near me sadly.

[@Rebraunful]

A really wonderful album, i play it, again and again since i got the box when it cames out ❤

[@PostalManiacMusic]

Just listened to this for the 1st time and it was so kickass I came right here to see what you thought! Hell yeah!

[@jetydosa1]

There is one and one place only, that I will go for the review of any new Deep Purple album, and thats Pete and the Sea of Tranquility. He's a huge fan, but he's also tough and fair. Ok, now Im gonna listen

[@SatWiseJanx]

@Pete I managed DP's first website and online store gor 6 yars and also will be seeing them in Bethel. Let's try to connect!

[@ThrashinNSlashin]

I'm going to see them for the 3rd time in late August. Recent setlists show 4 new songs.

[@TerryKrysinski]

Lovin' the new album,Pete--thanks for your review! It's truely a real grower! Fans need to check into Simon McBride's solo albums- especially 'The Fighter' and ' Since Then'..great stuff! (altho the live one and Crossing The Line are solid as well). And he has a very distinct,recognizable voice. He's a damn fine songwriter,singer AND player! T

[@alanpage2487]

Shut up! Pete’s talking!

[@chrismoyse3529]

If I were Simon McBride I’d be pissed off that there was no photo of me on the new Lp. It may well be his only one with the band. He sounds good on the album. A better fit than Morse? TBH I’m stuck in the past and struggle with quite a few of DP latest albums. Rhythm section is phenomenal as usual and instrumentally this album is great. Shame they don’t stretch out. Songs are often too short for me and then the focus is on Gillan and, whilst I loved him in the 70s, fifty years on his voice doesn’t sound great to me. I will give it time as DP are my favourite band but, like many of their reunion albums, I’m not sure how often I will go back to it. Thanks for the review chaps.

[@HockeyDudeJames2]

Great review. I was pleasently surprised whilst listening to this album. It is quite Good.

[@grahamdawson-lg5mq]

It's okay guys you did get it with the dvd. Sorry for that.

[@BlueBlazer47]

PS: =1 has gone into the UK mid-week album chart at #6. Impressive.

[@brettengland192]

'Bleeding Obvious' is a phenomenal track. It is quickly becoming my favorite on the album. I've been listening to the album constantly.

[@mikeedmonds7929]

It's a really good album, McBride and Airey really shine on this record. I enjoy it very much. Thanks guys, great review.

[@BlueBlazer47]

The covers album, like UFO's (which actually was their last), is pretty good, but yes, this album is very welcome, and I'd bet they're thinking about a follow-up already. Hope this is a UK #1 album. Steve Morse can be happy with a job well done. RiP his wife.

[@PaulThoresen]

Only heard it once so far. I liked it. For some reason it reminds me of some of the Gillan solo material more than Purple 🟣

[@kevinkivlin7137]

For a further taste of Simon's guitar work , I highly suggest you check out Snakecharmer - " Second Skin " , where he shares lead guitar resposibilities with ex Wishbone Ash guitarist Laurie Wisefield . If you enjoy mid period Whitesnake ( Ready N' Willin " ) , you will love the twin guitar attack .

[@daveswallow8351]

I discovered Simon's music years ago. Jhes a great songwriter, singer, guitarist. Check out his solo albums, especially the first three, they are top notch blues hard rock.

[@wolf1977]

I have McBride's solo albums, they're pretty good. I like Crossing The Line the most followed by The Fighter

[@teec3557]

Pretty run of the mill stuff. If you want good blues rock check out Gary Hoey - better songwriter and more imaginative guitar work.

[@franciskocher200]

A video with Rick is always a good video...👍

[@robertklimczak2207]

As a long time Purple fan from back in 1970 it's nice to see them finally go back to their roots. With all due respect I couldn't listen to another Steve Morse album. Great review Pete. Totally agree.

[@goesjem]

As a lifelong DP fan. I was born in 1974 and my dad was born in 1952 ( bless him ), I grew up with M2. As a teenager in the late 80zzz, I explored M3 and beyond. Now I am nearly 50 and beloved dad died in 2008, I realise Deep Purple is M2.

[@sjwill1956]

SAw a couple of interviews with the guys .. I think it was the Gillan one explaining that a buddy showed him a complicated math formula whose solution was = 1 ... said it summed up the bands history and perfect title ... picking up my copy wednesday from my local shop ...they texted me they set aside one for me...

[@russellcraft7269]

Got it and listened to it today - reminds me a lot of circa 1970 DP. Lyrics to "If I Were You" almost make me wonder if Ritchie tried to get back in the group when Steve left.

[@CB-xr1eg]

Just read the lyrics, you make a good point. I wonder...?🤷‍♂

[@alexandremacedo2979]

Great album 👏👏👏👏

[@nicholasmendonca2716]

.., these legends (considered one of the pioneers of heavy metal music, alongside other most memorable gems: Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin) having a discography that spans 23 albums and as of since 1968 (with an allotted of great performances on past releases by Rod Evans, David Coverdale, Glenn Hughes and Joe Lynn Turner) the classic lineup included the likes of Jon Lord (r.i.p), Roger Glover, Ian Gillan, Ritchie Blackmore and Ian Paice .. .., enter 2024 (after several albums with guitarist: Steve Morse) sees the introduction of Simon McBride, possessing some fine chops of his own and those that came before him .. .., the album: "=1" certainly showcases that this outfit hasn't lost any of their most appealing ingredients of yesteryear (adding a bit of a modern flare) on a compositional level in presenting some amazing sounding tunes and with a proportion of the classic lineup (Ian Paice, Roger Glover and Ian Gillan) joining them as of since 2003, another veteran: Don Airey .. .., they had become "Perfect Strangers" and raged a quietly humbled battle (in "Purpendicular" fashion) and survived through that of the varied changes of rock and heavy metal music of the 80's, 90's and 2000's (without going "Bananas") and then "Whoosh!", the "Now, What?!" continues in a familiar sweet formula .

[@CB-xr1eg]

Very nice, but it's *flair* not *flare*

[@stoneyripley7752]

It is a fantastic album...best in 26 years

[@Carl_O.]

Have you listened to Purpendicular?

[@stoneyripley7752]

@@Carl_O. Of course....this is better

[@teec3557]

Not even close imo. Purpendicular is a top 5 DP album. Nothing on this alum comes close to many of the songs on Purpendicular.

[@stoneyripley7752]

@@teec3557 I have listened to the album a couple of more times and I was wrong. This is their best album since forever ! Better than Purpendicular, better than Machine Head and better than In Rock !

[@teec3557]

Wow I didn’t realize that Machine Head and In Rock sucked so bad

[@kinesjl]

Pete I think you'll get your wish on the set list. At Winterbach this year they played Bit on the Side, Lazy Sod, and Portable Door in a 13 song set.

[@guymartin763]

I was pleasantly surprised after the first listen.

[@independenceltd.]

8/10

[@michaelbeaule1966]

The album was fantastic. Not a bad song on it. Guitar and keyboards were stellar. If they go out on this album they certainly went out on top of their game.

[@G0452]

Just got my vinyl copy. Plays at 45 RPMs and two records. Perfectly flat and no noise. I'm on my fourth play in a row. This to me is better than Whoosh, and while I haven't kept up on their releases that well over the past 40 years this lives up to any hype you've heard about it. Their best since Burn?

[@allandriver2066]

Get the double album......You get a book and PURPLE VINYL!!!!!! 😎🤘Just had a copy shipped from UK to OZ!

[@williamwright2308]

Thoroughly enjoyed this comprehensive and joyful purple review, yeah the cover sucks but you guys didn't hold back love for the music.

[@grahamdawson-lg5mq]

I'm surprised you guys did not get the two disc set with the dvd. It's a great dvd.

[@ricklabonte6790]

I did get the DVD as well.

[@CB-xr1eg]

Rick & Pete both said they got the dvd.

[@747jono]

Looking forward to Live Deep Purple ranking.