Friday, March 03, 2006

108. Deep Purple / The Battle Rages On. 1992. 3.5/5

The return of Ian Gillan after missing the Slaves And Masters release after disagreements with Blackmore reunited the Mark II lineup for the third – and final – time.
This was another solid release, though it was obvious the initial magic that was produced by the initial reformation eight years previously had now waned. Some have even remarked that Deep Purple were beginning to sound like a tribute band – of Deep Purple.
The heavy influence of Lord and Blackmore drive this album, which probably pushed it too far out of the reach of the modern fans.

As a Purple release, this is on the average side. Obviously there was a lack of inspiration, and that some of the members were again unable to work together. This was the final release that included Ritchie Blackmore, who moved away from this style of music. For Deep Purple, further success was yet to come.

Rating : This is not a weak album, but it contains nothing new for a band that was once one of the front runners in its field. Good without stretching itself. 3.5/5.

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