I had this on VHS back in the UK, and had been looking for a DVD of it for a while. I liked the Mk3 Deep Purple line-up more for the songs, although I was always impressed with the way David Coverdale went from unknown part-time singer to full-on rock star - he really gave it everything, and had such a great voice. Of course, the biggest change between Deep Purple Mk2 and Mk3 was the addition of Glenn Hughes and his added vocals changed the sound of the band considerably. It was a shame that his ego got in the way, and you can pretty much tell that he's always trying to get the attention with his screams, always trying to overshadow Coverdale. Ritchie Blackmore is in great form on the DVD, up to the point of trashing two Fender Stratocasters (what a terrible waste) and blowing his amps up. Jon Lord and Ian Paice are also in fine form, and if you are looking for a way to view the band in explosive form, this is pretty much it. The film quality isn't brilliant but the show makes up for it.
01 mai 2008
Remember The Name!
This is a great album for anyone who loved the 80's stadium rock sound. The Name should have been up there alongside bands like U2 and Simple Minds, but the ineptitude of their record company robbed them of the chance for worldwide fame and fortune. A slickly produced record that exhibits superb musicianship, 'Dangerous Times' reveals a band at the height of their powers. Their live shows (they had supported David Bowie, Faith No More, and a host of other top-notch acts) were even more powerful, thanks to the spot-on rhythm section of Steve Lamb (Bass) and Brian Gatens (Drums). Guitarist Steve Crittall demonstrates astonishing chops and a true mastery of his guitar, coupled with a superbly engineered guitar sound. The atmospheric qualities come from Steve Bull's keyboards, and Mark Strobel (vocalist) could have easily given Bono and Jim Kerr a run for their money. The second album, 'The Promise', delivered more of the same powerful sound and was produced by Asia's bassist John Wetton. But sadly the record company had no idea how to properly promote or market the band and they came to a premature end. A shame, given the combined talent of these five guys could put most other bands of the same era to shame. If you come across either of their albums buy them and enjoy!