After having broken up in ’75 and all members going their separate ways with varying degrees of success, it was a huge surprise when it was announced that Purple were reconvening, and with Ritchie Blackmore on guitar. After all the animosity between members, especially Gillan and Blackmore, I was stunned to say the least. One things for sure, it would have to be a killer record.
While it’s not the band’s best, it certainly is a strong record and the lead off track Knocking At Your Back Door is a great way to open with. A very melodic tune with a great hook and chorus, and Ritchie is on fire playing some great licks. Mean Streak is a throw back to old Purple with that heavy shuffle very similar to Strange Kind Of Woman, and yet the main melody is very US radio-friendly. Listening to the intro of the title track with the unmistakable sound of Jon Lords Hammond brings a tear to the eye, knowing he is no longer with us. My favourite track would have to be Gypsy’s Kiss. An old school uptempo Purple romp with Ritchie and Jon trading licks is pure joy.
I know Purple are still a going concern, but we won’t ever hear this sound again.
8.5/10 from The Grooveman.
Love this album!