Rapture Of The Deep

Ian Gillan's vocals are truly unique. What an inspired effort. Actually, the whole band is inspired. This sort of strength and musical subtlety can only come from a true working band, not a group getting together every few years promoting another "hits" collection on the latest farewell-reunion tour.

From the opening snarl of "Money Talks" through the very touching "Clearly Quite Absurd", topped off by the politically insightful "Before Time Began", as well as everything in between, this is not only vintage Purple, it's modern day classic rock. UNMISSABLE!

The band spent five weeks recording the new album, "Rapture of the Deep". This becomes clear when listening, there's a definite live feel about it. This is a different beast compared to "Bananas" a couple years back. It's harder, darker and more adventurous, a very cohesive album. I was hooked after a few listens and willing to call "Rapture of the Deep" one of the finest in their catalog. It contains NO filler and has plenty of memorable songs.

My first impression is that singer Ian Gillan sounds very inspired and full of attitude. Lots of questioning authority in his lyrics and he takes many opportunities. Guitarist Steve Morse's and Keyboardist Don Airey's interplay is more refined and they get more opportunity to shine here than on the previous album. There's some nice drum work from Ian Paice and the bass lines from Roger Glover are strong and steady. This is Deep Purple 21st Century Style! Here are my thoughts:

01. Money Talks - a well arranged progressive hard rock vibe. There are a lot of things happening in this song and it sets the tone for the album. Stunning. A great opener!

02. Girls Like That - a "radio friendly" song with a pretty cool hook and it has an absolutely cool keyboard solo.

03. Wrong Man - a chugging powerful groove. Once again a catchy chorus. Right out of the gate we get three good rockers and then something special happens...

04. Rapture Of The Deep - an epic with fantastic Arabic riffs and melodies. A very successful attempt at trying something progressive with purpose. Masterpiece #1

05. Clearly Quite Absurd - a simply stunning ballad that doesn't get mushy. Melancholy melodies which suit Gillan's "mature" voice perfectly. Masterpiece #2

06. Don't Let Go - the albums best rocker and a steady groovin' toe tapper. Nice!

07. Back To Back - this one goes many places. Fun stuff that could be called a great filler.

08. Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye - a magnificent rocker, with great lyrics (yes, I piss in the water and burn down trees, I watch as the creatures fall to their knees. They ain't got a clue as disaster looms, they're too busy choking on toxic fumes) and a good up beat Bo-Diddley type drum feel from Ian Paice.

09. MTV - some fantastic singing by Gillan, superb lyrics again and wonderful solos.

10. Junkyard Blues - breathtaking, just listen to these solos. The energy is contagious. To describe it in words is impossible.

11. Before Time Began - A Deep Purple classic, with a psychedelic touch. Once again, I am impressed by the arrangements and the progressive feel. Masterpiece #3

Highlights: Money Talks, Rapture of the Deep, Clearly Quite Absurd, Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye & Before Time Began.

The remaining songs are intense, jam-packed with musical improvisation and motivation and performed brilliantly. The entire album thunders and grooves along with renewed vigor. I have to confess, I've made a mistake questioning a band with such a rich history as Deep Purple. Maybe they don't always hit that "bulls eye" but each time they're written off, they deliver one of their best albums.

Congratulations guys, you're far from retirement! (Based on the advanced copy of ROTD).