This is the second album after the band’s return after their disbandment in ’75. Also, this lineup is what most regard as the classic Purple Mk2 version. Blackmore seemed to be loving this at the time (we all know what transpired later), but he brought with him a more commercial edge to the band after his stint with taking Rainbow in that direction. In fact, the opening track Bad Attitude is a very commercial sounding track and was released as a single – as well as Call Of The Wild.
It’s a good album and it definitely has its moments, but there does seem to be that spark missing from proceedings. Even when we get to speedier songs like Mad Dog, it all seems a bit to polished and the edge has been removed. It’s not until we get to The Spanish Archer when the vibe has that old Purple feel to it, and that’s in the intro. It’s ironic that the best track on the album is the last one, Dead Or Alive, as it does rock quite well and has a light shining to the past.
It’s nowhere near their best effort, but there is still enough here to keep the most discerning rock fan happy.
7.5/10 from The Grooveman.
