Shades of Deep Purple [Import] [Limited Edition]

Track Listings

1. And The Address

2. Hush

3. One More Rainy Day

4. Prelude Happiness Im So Glad

5. Mandrake Root

6. Help

7. Love Help Me

8. Hey Joe

9. Shadows (Out Take) (Bonus Track)

10. Love Help Me (Inst Vsn) (Bonus Track)

11. Help (Alt Take) (Bonus Track)

12. Hey Joe (Radio Session) (Bonus Track)

13. Hush (Live US TV) (Bonus Track)

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
Limited Japanese reissue of 1968 album which now includes 2 versions of the hit 'Hush' & 2 versions of the Beatles' 'Help', packaged in a miniature LP sleeve with 5 bonus tracks, 'Shadows' (out-take), 'Love Help Me' (instr. version), 'Help' (alt. take), 'Hey Joe' (radio session) & 'Hush' (live US TV), with song lyrics included in the sleevenotes. 13 tracks. Vap. 2003.

Tracks:

And The Address
Hush
One More Rainy Day
Prelude: Happiness/I'm So Glad
Mandrake Root
Help
Love Help Me
Hey Joe
Shadows (Album Out Take)
Love Help Me (Instrumental Version)
Help (Alternate Take)
Hey Joe (BBC Top Gear Session)
Hush (Live US TV)

Album Description

Remastered reissue of 1968 album with 5 bonus tracks 'Shadows' (Album Out Take), 'Love Help Me' (Instrumental Version) first time on CD for both & 'Help' (Alternate take), 'Hey Joe' (BBC Top Gear Session) & 'Hush' (Live US TV) all 3 previously unissued. 2000 release. Standard jewel case.

Customer Reviews:

"Hey Joe" and all others, don't overlook this again!.......2007-06-26

As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various recordings from the 60's and 70's.

It's not uncommon that a rock and roll band has a history that is forgotten about. Many times, it is for the proper reasons. Deep Purple`s first incarnation "Mark I" had three terrific records. If they never created another note, they could be proud to have composed such great material.

While to most of the musical universe Deep Purple is "Mark 2" featuring the intense and strong vocals of Ian Gillian and Roger Glover on bass, the prior story begins in 1968. Rod Evans (One of the most underrated singers of the era) and Nick Simper (Bass) may not be household names but were very much a part of the foundation.

"Shades Of" isn't "In Rock." That is not a swipe in the least. It is only a warning to those that are looking for the more metal and improvisational side of the band. What the initial album consists of is terrific material and well-blended rock with Ritchie Blackmore already way ahead of the curve and only to get better.

"And The Address" opens with a tasty riff that you don't forget. It's a solid choice to lay down the landscape of what will follow.

"Hush" is indeed the cover of the Joe South tune. Purple may very well have the definitive version. It is still played on rock radio to this day.

"One More Rainy Day" features a well-crafted sound by Jon Lord on the keyboards. Evans vocal feel is superlative.

"Prelude"/"Happiness"/"I'm So Glad" covers the musical spectrum in a bit over seven minutes. "I'm So Glad" is the timeless tune written by Skip James that was made famous by the incredible Cream version. Purple chooses not to intensify it to that degree but finds a perfect direction using a mid-tempo arrangement and first rate drumming from Ian Paice.

"Mandrake Root" is Purple's first journey into the land of improvisation. As they explore uncharted waters, the band jells well. Jon Lord's keyboards are mixed high giving a memorable performance.

"Help!" needs no introduction. The Beatles classic (Lennon/McCartney) is slowed down to a totally different and unique arrangement. The vocals are heartfelt and the results are pleasant!

"Love Help Me" pays homage to the psychedelic sounds of the 60's Although it may be the least known song on the record it clearly belongs.

"Hey Joe" closes the festivities. There is debate if Billy Roberts wrote the song but never a question how endless versions from Hendrix to Purple will live forever. This rendition isn't full of fire but it packs enough of a punch to get the job done.

Make sure to purchase the remaster with the five bonus tracks because "Shadows" is strong enough to have been included on the original disc.

Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"

Vanilla Fudge clones.......2006-12-05

Deep Purple started out in early '68 as Vanilla Fudge clones. John Lord caught the Fudge in fall '67 when they played London and were one of the hottest bands around. Ritchie Blackmore was more into Hendrix after making a living as a session player and in bands like Jerry Lee Lewis' back-up band. When Lord and Blackmore came together in early '68 they agreed they wanted to become a British Vanilla Fudge with Hendrix overtones. This is what they came up with......"Hush" and "Hey Joe" are the best tracks here. They were still finding their direction, and only became "heavier" when Zeppelin's first album came out in '69. For a start, not a bad album......but nothing like what they would become later.

Deep Purple's First Album.......2006-12-01

This isn't very good and it's not the Deep Purple that came out with...In Rock.
There's maybe three somewhat decent songs and the rest are a boreing overload.
The singer sounds dated and so do the band.
I'd say Hush, Help and Hey Joe are the best tracks.
And either one did the band write.
However if your a big Deep Purple fan and want all there stuff.
Buy this one because it's got the bonus tracks.
Which are basically OK.
DON'T PAY MUCH! BECAUSE THE BAND AND ALBUM SOUNDS LIKE THERE STUCK IN 1968.
SOME RECORDS ALWAYS SEEM FRESH...NOT THIS ONE.

Shades of Deep Purple.......2006-09-23

Band Personnell:
Rod Evans - Vocals
Ritchie Blackmore - Guitars
Nick Simper - Bass and Backing Vocals
Ian Paice - Drums
Jon Lord - Organs and Backing Vocals

This was the time right after they changed name from "Roundabout" to "Deep Purple", in this period they tried to find their sound, because of this 50% of the album contains cover songs from Joe South, Skip James, The Beatles and Billy Roberts, they only used a couple of days to complete the whole album.
The cover song "Hush" by Joe South was their most successful song from the poineering lineup, "Help" was a slower version than the original version by The Beatles, and the final song "Hey Joe" was earler covered by Jimi Hendrix also became very popular from this lineup.
All in all this album is a very good beginning of new Deep Purple fans, just to get the feel of how it all began.

Plus 1/2--------- "Spitfire Records???????".......2006-07-21

Spitfire Records is a subdivision of Eagle Rock Entertainment located in New York, United States.
So now that we know that, let's talk about Deep Purples' Shades Of Deep Purple. It took the industry long enough but they finally got it right for the earlier Deep Purple. These guys did it right. First of all this CD was digitized from the original master tapes. Before this CD the recordings where very bad, definitely not from first generation tapes, if from tape at all. The second thing, they did the remastering at Abbey Road. The sound is really great. They also did a great job with the liner notes. If you buy "Shades Of Deep Purple", "The Book of Taliesyn" and "Deep Purple" these liner notes pretty much all together tell you the early story of the Deep Purple. I am very glad I purchased this CD. I only wished I would have done this earlier. I highly recommend this whole Spitfire series. I don't believe this will ever get any better. By the way for all of you who believe that this band didn't contributed to the hard rock era. Living through it I can remember the actions of people when Hush came out. The older generation of the time S#?t a brick.. The fuzz the rawness and the harshness. This was definitely a group that contributed to Hard Rock. It may not match what happened after these guys MK1 broke up but they did help shape it.

Average customer rating:

And on the 8th day God created the Fender Stratocaster
A box set that shows the magnitude and scope of Deep Purple
Deep purple box set...a great introduction.
For the most part, Darth Kommissar is an idiot reviewer!...read on so you can find out why!
Deepest Purple and then some

Shades 1968-1998
Deep Purple
Manufacturer: Rhino / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Catch the Rainbow: The Anthology
The House of Blue Light
In a Word: Yes (1969 - )
In Rock: 25th Anniversary (UK)
Live in Europe

ASIN: B00000I5LW
Release Date: 1999-03-16

Tracks:

Hush
Help
Shadows (Demo, 1968)
Love Help Me (Instrumental Demo, 1968)
Kentucky Woman (Single Version)
Anthem
River Deep-Mountain High (Single Version)
Emmaretta
Bird Has Flown, The (Single Version)
Hallelujah (I Am The Preacher)
Speed King (Full-Length U.K. Version)
Child In TIme
Cry Free (Outtake, 1970/Roger Glover Remix)
Black Night (Full-Length U.K. Version)
Jam Stew (Outtake, 1970)
Into the Fire (Live, 1970)
No No No (Live, 1971)

Tracks:

Strange Kind Of Woman
I'm Alone
Fireball
Demon's Eye
Anyone's Daughter
Fools
No One Came
Freedom (Outtake, 1971)
Slow Train (Outtake, 1971)
Never Before
When A Blind Man Cries
Highway Star
Smoke On The Water
Pictures Of Home
Space Truckin'
Painted Horse (Outtake, 1972)

Tracks:

Smoke On The Water (Live, 1972)
Lazy (Live, 1972)
Woman From Tokyo
Mary Long
Super Trouper
Smooth Dancer
Burn
Might Just Take Your Life
Sail Away
Coronarias Redig
Stormbringer
Hold On
Lady Double Dealer (Live, 1975)
Gettin' Tighter
Comin' Home

Tracks:

Knocking At Your Back Door
Perfect Strangers
Son Of Alerik (7in Single Version)
Call Of The Wild
Bad Attitude (Single Version)
Hard Lovin' Woman (Live, 1987)
Hush '88 (Live, 1988)
King Of Dreams (Single Version)
Fire In The Basement
Slow Down Sister
Battle Rages On, The
Anya (Live, 1993)
Castle Full Of Rascals
Seventh Heaven

Amazon.com

Deep Purple were grander than grand, with a sound that was kept huge by the band's avoidance of then-popular thematic explorations. They stayed the loud-and-hard course, as evidenced by this lavish four-CD box. A photo-rich booklet accompanies a host of early cover singles ("Kentucky Woman" and "River Deep-Mountain High" among them), a couple of demos ("Shadows," "Love Help Me"), and some belated 1980s and '90s cash-ins on the band's popularity in Japan. But, of course, the meat of this set is heaped on the first three CDs, each of which holds blasting rockers aplenty, including the Beatles' "Help" turned into cranked-up faux psychedelia. Ritchie Blackmore is the centerpiece here, in part because the remainder of the band's "voice" shifted with Blackmore's whims. In fact, the only works featuring the more unpredictable Tommy Bolin are the flawed, funky "Gettin' Tighter" (with forgettable vocals by Glenn Hughes) and the superior "Comin' Home." Ultimately, Shades proves Deep Purple had an astonishing grasp of blaring guitar riffology. Two words: this rocks! --Andrew Bartlett

Customer Reviews:

And on the 8th day God created the Fender Stratocaster.......2007-01-05

and it was given to Richie Blackmore to create music and the rest they say is history. And what a history lesson Deep Purple teaches and preaches us over the span of 4 CD's. In my eyes, this is the old testament of Deep Purple, I will dwell and offer comparsions between this box and the new testament which is another Deep Purple box set released around 2002 titled Listen Learn Read On which are both essential.

As many of you may (or may not know), Deep Purple were not a one - trick pony. There is a great deal of masterfully crafted guitar magic beyond that song titled Smoke On the Water. I mean, that is not the Be All to End All of the Deep Purple story. As ignorant as they may come across to the naive, it;s true. Hell, last time Deep Purple came to town in concert, on the Rapture tour, radio was announcing all day Purple is in town, and I'll be damned if they didn't play anything new from the band. Nope, just Smoke and Highway Star. In anycase, I do not want to sidetrack myself from the product I am reviewing.

What is presented here is, in a nutshell, 30 years of Deep Purple. 1968 - 1998. In between that time Purple went through many personel changes. I won't delve into that as it is well covered in other reviews here. For the most part, all the essentials are covered. The early Mark I era is done justice by including 10 tracks. All the hits for that era are included, mainly Hush and Kentucky Woman. Gillan - era (Mark II - BEST) rounds out the 1 CD with In Rock cuts and previously unreleased live and outtakes. Disc 2 is all Mark II and is the meat and potatoes of the collection. 16 tracks all Fireball and Machine Head tracks. Nice to see Fools included, as well as (in 1998 hard to find) outtakes Freedom and Slow Train. Wrapping up Disc 2 is pretty much all the essential Machine Head is included with When A Blind Man Cries. Wonderful song. Disc 3 begins with some songs from Made in Japan, and a few tracks from the last ever Mark II 70's album WDYTWR. Track 7 kicks off the Coverdale/Hughes era and both albums get a fair deal of attention. I would have liked to seen You Fool No One and Mistreated included atleast one of them, and ditto for Soldier of Fortune for Stormbringer. Oh well, keep reading on for some positive information. At long last, disc 3 ends with a pair of terrific tracks from the Come Taste the Band effort from the guitar extrodinaire Tommy Bolin. Comin Home and Getting tighter are no where near in the same league of the Purple you have grown to love and adore, but it is what it is, and these are finally some remastered tracks from the Bolin era, as that album has yet to get any kind of remaster treatment, and I doubt it ever will. :(
CD 4 covers the Mark II reunion to almost present day. Knocking at Your Back Door and Perfect Strangers are just as good as anything the band put out in the 70's. Joe Lynn Turner is represented here extremely well with 3 tracks from the Slaves and Masters album/sessions. Slow Down Sister is a great treat to include. Gillan rejoins again for the Battle Rages on and what a great album that entire thing is. It's a shame Steve Morse is represented not by the 2 tracks but the choice of those 2 tracks. Castles Full of Rascals is perhaps the worst song DP has ever done...why not include Varoom Ted the Mechanic or Sometimes I Feel Like Screaming from Purpendicular, and Seventh Heaven from Abandon! Yikes, another dud. Better off to have included the updated Bloodsuckers. Yeah, that would have been a wiser choice.

All-in-all a great box set, and overview of Deep Purple from 1968 - 1998 with the exception of the last 2 tracks. While this is essential, so is the Listen Learn Read On (6 CD)box set. Don't view this as to which one do I go with or choose, get both box sets as not too much of the same material repeats itself. The Shades box has atleast 1 1/2 CD full of songs not covered on the LLRO Box, and that is not even including CD 4 of this set which is post 70's material. The LLRO Box only concentrates on the classic 60 - 70's periods. So with that being said, I recommend both sets and will review both sets. Listen Learn and Read On.

A box set that shows the magnitude and scope of Deep Purple.......2006-11-05

Don't even bother with a single disc Deep Purple greatest hits if you really like this band; just as the Beatles or Led Zeppelin are worth more than a single disc collection. This box set has so many highlights, it just shows the magnitude and scope of this great band Deep Purple.

The down side, the collection only goes as far as 1998, a bit outdated. But not a problem for those wanting only the Blackmore era. I'd also agree with other reviewers who thought there were too many photos of the Coverdale and Hughes (MKIII) era. That too struck me the first time I looked through the booklet. But, who really sits around just looking at the photos all the time.

The up side, tons of great studio and live performances and the sound quality is really good and consistent, considering all the years and production values.

Disc 1 highlights: Hush, Kentucky Woman, Anthem, Hallelujah, Speed King, Child In Time, Black Night, Into the Fire (Live '70), and No No No (Live '71).

Disc 2 highlights: Strange Kind Of Woman, Fireball, Demon's Eye, No One Came, Highway Star, Smoke On The Water, Pictures Of Home, Space Truckin'.

Disc 3 highlights: Smoke On The Water (Live '72), Lazy (Live '72), Woman From Tokyo, Mary Long, Smooth Dancer, Burn, Sail Away, Stormbringer, Lady Double Dealer (Live '75) and Comin' Home.

Disc 4 highlights: Knocking At Your Back Door, Perfect Strangers, Call Of The Wild, Bad Attitude, Hard Lovin' Woman (Live '87), The Battle Rages On, Anya (Live '93), A Castle Full Of Rascals and Seventh Heaven.

Recommended.

Deep purple box set...a great introduction. .......2006-07-21

There are things that should have done a little differently, such as, less photos of MKIII (Coverdale/Hughes era) and more MKII (Gillan/Glover era), after all, MKII were together far longer, but, you'd never know that by Rhinos booklet. Probably the folks involved in making the booklet, knew very little about Deep Purple.

The good news, the music is pretty spot on. Perhaps a few more from the Steve Morse era (1996-) would have given this collection a better balance. But, that's the way these box set running orders go. Besides, most people will probably want more of the "classic rock" era.

Overall, a great introduction to one of the few, great bands. Think about it, Deep Purple's music continues to fascinate as well as puzzle after all this time is evidence we are dealing with art of the highest caliber.

Now, let's rock!

For the most part, Darth Kommissar is an idiot reviewer!...read on so you can find out why!.......2006-02-01

Let's breakdown Darth Kommissar's review sentence by sentence

Darth writes: For nearly four decades, Deep Purple has been one of the world's finest rock and roll bands - no questions asked. (Insert DT comment here). Yes, I guess the 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's would be four decades, not nearly four but actually four decades. And if you are writing your review in 2004, I guess you could say it's five decades now!

Darth writes: The band has released several albums, live albums, compilations, and box sets. This is one of the band's many box sets. (Insert DT comment here) I really cannot counter this because its fact. Usually a box set is released once a band has established itself once they've released "several albums, live albums, compilations".

Let's breakdown the Pro's / Con's
PROS:
-This set spans Deep Purple's entire career, from their debut material in the late sixties right up to material from the Ian Gillan reunion. (Insert DT comment here...Yes it's true he hit the nail on the head with that comment, but actually the Gillan reunion happened in 84 and again in 93 and this goes past that to 98)

-Most of the band's big hits are here for your listening pleasure. (Insert DT comment here...could you mention a few of the hits, I know them but do you?)

-A number of underrated masterpieces are also contained in this set. (Insert DT comment here...could you please name a few of these so-called underrated masterpieces please?)

-There are tons of rare tracks here, including single versions of songs which are otherwise, outside this set, unavailable on compact disc! (Insert DT comment here...I'm confused on this part...read the cons section below)

-The set consists of many discs of Purple classics. (Insert DT comment here...Darth you've kinda pointed this out already, but please mention a few classics)

CONS:
-The band couldn't decide whether they wanted to do a career-spanning retrospective or a rarities set. They should have done both of these things separately, not in the same set. (Insert DT comment here...sounds like a good old Darth whine, can't ever satisfy this reviewer who more than likely didn't pick up this box set)

-Honestly, how many people are going to want to pay this much money for the sake of a few rare tracks? Most big fans already own all of the band's albums. (Insert DT comment here...But wait Darth, just a moment ago you mentioned in your Pro's section the following -There are tons of rare tracks here, including single versions of songs which are otherwise, outside this set, unavailable on compact disc...now I'm confused are there or anren't there rarities...I want to buy this but I'm confused by you!)

OVERALL:
Overall this is a good set, but if you already own all of the band's albums, it's not really worth buying this for the sake of only a few rare tracks. Still, the material featured here is excellent, and stands as solid proof that Deep Purple is one hell of a rock band. (Insert DT comment here...there he goes again...I think he's positive about it only having a few rarities now).

DT's Overall...first off this is an awesome set. Worth every penny...People of have made Darth Kommissar a top 50 reviewer should pull their heads out their butts, and listen to reviewers who actually listen to the music and not just wanting to review every single thing on Amazon like they own it. This guy reviews everything. He'd give a turd 5 stars if he could find something positive and negative to write about it. Reviewer beware!!!

Deepest Purple and then some.......2005-08-26

If your looking for a collection that has a little of everything forget all the single disc collections and buy this. Four cd's containg album tracks rarities and 2 versions of Smoke On The Water (studio & Live). Features all 4 lead vocalists (Nick Simper, Ian Gillan, David Coverdale & Joe Lyn Turner). If you have the extra pocket change and want comprehensive Purple buy this set!!!

Average customer rating:

Robert Starer: Excursions for a Pianist

Manufacturer: Albany Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0000049PZ
Release Date: 1996-12-17

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Excursions For A Pianist
Sketches In Color: Purple
Sketches In Color: Shades Of Blue
Sketches In Color: Black & White
Sketches In Color: Bright Orange
Sketches In Color: Grey
Sketches In Color: Pink
Sketches In Color: Crimson
At Home Alone: Dialogue With The Self
At Home Alone: Opening Petals
At Home Alone: Dreams Of Glory
At Home Alone: In The Birdcage
At Home Alone: A Faded Old Photograph
At Home Alone: Pop-Time
At Home Alone: Herman The Brown Mouse
At Home Alone: A Small Oriental Vase
At Home Alone: Steps In The Attic
At Home Alone: Shadows On The Wall
At Home Alone: Deep Down The Soul
At Home Alone: Dancing Next Door
Three Israeli Sketches: Pastorale
Three Israeli Sketches: Little White Sheep
Three Israeli Sketches: Dance
Eclectric Church
Five Caprices: Moderato
Five Caprices: Adagio
Five Caprices: Allegro risoluto
Five Caprices: Andantino
Five Caprices: Molto allegro
Sonata No.1: Allegro
Sonata No.1: Andante cantabile
Sonata No.1: Allegro Frivolo

Average customer rating:

"Hey Joe" and all others that overlooked this the first time
Deep Purple's debut is a rock masterpiece
one of the best forgotten albums

Shades of Deep Purple
Deep Purple
Manufacturer: Tetragrammaton
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Book of Taliesyn
The Book of Taliesyn

ASIN: B00003INJ6
Release Date: 2005-05-17

Tracks:

And The Address
Hush
One More Rainy Day
Prelude: Happiness I'm So Glad
Mandrake Root
Help
Love Help Me
Hey Joe
Shadows (Album Out Take)
Love Help Me (Instrumental Version)
Help (Alternate Take)
Hey Joe (BBC Top Gear Session)
Hush (Live US TV)

Customer Reviews:

"Hey Joe" and all others that overlooked this the first time.......2007-06-26

As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various recordings from the 60's and 70's.

It's not uncommon that a rock and roll band has a history that is forgotten about. Many times, it is for the proper reasons. Deep Purple`s first incarnation "Mark I" had three terrific records. If they never created another note, they could be proud to have composed such great material.

While to most of the musical universe Deep Purple is "Mark 2" featuring the intense and strong vocals of Ian Gillian and Roger Glover on bass, the prior story begins in 1968. Rod Evans (One of the most underrated singers of the era) and Nick Simper (Bass) may not be household names but were very much a part of the foundation.

"Shades Of" isn't "In Rock." That is not a swipe in the least. It is only a warning to those that are looking for the more metal and improvisational side of the band. What the initial album consists of is terrific material and well-blended rock with Ritchie Blackmore already way ahead of the curve and only to get better.

"And The Address" opens with a tasty riff that you don't forget. It's a solid choice to lay down the landscape of what will follow.

"Hush" is indeed the cover of the Joe South tune. Purple may very well have the definitive version. It is still played on rock radio to this day.

"One More Rainy Day" features a well-crafted sound by Jon Lord on the keyboards. Evans vocal feel is superlative.

"Prelude"/"Happiness"/"I'm So Glad" covers the musical spectrum in a bit over seven minutes. "I'm So Glad" is the timeless tune written by Skip James that was made famous by the incredible Cream version. Purple chooses not to intensify it to that degree but finds a perfect direction using a mid-tempo arrangement and first rate drumming from Ian Paice.

"Mandrake Root" is Purple's first journey into the land of improvisation. As they explore uncharted waters, the band jells well. Jon Lord's keyboards are mixed high and it give a memorable performance.

"Help!" needs no introduction. The Beatles classic (Lennon/McCartney) is slowed down to a totally different and unique arrangement. The vocals are heartfelt and the results are pleasant!

"Love Help Me" pays homage to the psychedelic sounds of the 60's Although it may be the least known song on the record it clearly belongs.
"Hey Joe" closes the festivities. There is debate if Billy Roberts wrote the song but never a question how endless versions from Hendrix to Purple will live forever. This rendition isn't full of fire but it packs enough of a punch to get the job done.

Make sure to purchase the remaster with the five bonus tracks because "Shadows" is strong enough to have been included on the original disc.

Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"

Deep Purple's debut is a rock masterpiece.......2005-06-23

Shades Of Deep Purple (1968.) Deep Purple's first album.

In 1968, a then little-known British rock band known as Deep Purple released its debut album, appropriately entitled Shades Of Deep Purple. This was released a few years before Ian Gillan and Roger Glover joined the band, and gave them their popular "classic hard rock/metal" sound. This and the two follow-up albums feature original vocalist Rod Evans, and more of a straight-up psychedelic rock sound than what you're probably used to hearing from the band. Either way, read on for my review of Shades Of Deep Purple.

Deep Purple's debut features the band as they were, before the Ian Gillan days. Back when Rod Evans sang, the band featured a psychedelic heavy metal sound, which heavily emphasized the organ. The stylings were not unlike those of American rockers Vanilla Fudge, who the band did draw heavily from. The album kicks off with And The Address, an interesting little instrumental session. In this session, drums and the organ are the main instruments. Surprisingly, this works well. A good openng track. Hush was Deep Purple's first big hit (and only major hit NOT to feature Ian Gillan singing) was this, a cover of a Joe South song. Evans' vocals are top notch here, and the rest of the band plays well too. This song deserves all the credit it gets. One More Rainy Day is a bit more on the slow and melodic side than the last two tracks were. The vocals and the organ usage here are very nice. Prelude: Happiness I'm So Glad kicks off with an extended instrumental session in which the organ is the main instrument (similar to the album's opening track), and then it becomes a psychedelic rocker. Overall, a good track. Mandrake Root, a blues-based hard rocker. is the closest thing on the album to the metal sound that would make Deep Purple popular in the early seventies. ANOTHER excellent track, and a highly underrated one. Help is a cover of the Beatles song. However, Deep Purple slows things WAY down, and makes the song considerably more gloomy than the Fab Four's original (I feel Deep Purple's sound suits the depressing lyrics a little better, actually.) Once again, the organ is the main instrument. Love Help Me is my favorite track on the album. It's very interesting, because the sound is something like "Iron Butterfly meets Green Day". It's an interesting track that must be heard to be appreciated. Hey Joe is a cover of the Jimi Hendrix classic. However, Deep Purple has added an extended instrumental opening sequence, in which, you guessed it, the organ is the main instrument. Surprisingly, the main portion of the song isn't too far off from the original. And that's it for Shades Of Deep Purple - the band's debut flat out rules.

The remastered reissue of the album features five rare bonus tracks. Shadows, an album outtake, is the first one. This song never made it onto the final version of the album. Why that is I will never know, because this song is GREAT! The chorus here is priceless. Don't skip this one just because it's an outtake, or you'll regret it! The instrumental version of Love Help Me is exactly what it says it is. The alternate take of Help is, once again, a track that is exactly what it says it is. It's a less polished version of the "normal" version of the track, with some slightly different vocal delivery. There are two main differences between the BBC Top Gear version of Hey Joe and its studio counterpart. One, it lacks the extended instrumental opener. Two, the vocal delivery is a little slower. Not as good as the studio one, but still a nice bonus track. Hush is a great song, and this United States television performance is a good performance, BUT THE SOUND QUALITY HERE IS GODAWFUL! Couldn't they have found a live version of the song with better sound quality? These bonus tracks, though not exactly masterpieces, are a nice bonus.

Overall, Shades Of Deep Purple is an excellent debut album, and is strongly recommended to all fans of the band. Take my advice though - DO NOT GET ANY VERSION OF DEEP PURPLE'S FIRST THREE ALBUMS, UNLESS THEY ARE THE REISSUES! The original versions don't have the bonus tracks, and the sound quality is just terrible. These ones will say "The Original Deep Purple Collection" at the top center of the packaging. To put it simply, if you're a fan of Deep Purple or classic rock in general, this album is highly recommended - just make sure you buy the remastered version!

one of the best forgotten albums.......1998-07-24

THE ORIGINAL HEVY METAL GROUPS FIRST ALBUM IS THEIR BEST WITH THE GREAT GUITAR WORK ON MANDERICK ROOT AND THE JAZZ ROCK VERSION OF THE BEATLES HELP AND THEIR FIRST HIT HUSH IT IS A MASTERPEAC

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Shades of Deep Purple
Deep Purple
Manufacturer: Creative Sounds
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Tracks:

And the Address
Hush
One More Rainy Day
I'm So Gold: A. Prelude - Happiness/B. I'm So Glad
Mandrake Root
Help!
Love Help Me
Hey Joe

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Shades of excellence

Shades of
Deep Purple
Manufacturer: Phantom Sound & Vision
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
ASIN: B00000E2FA
Release Date: 1996-11-21

Customer Reviews:

Shades of excellence.......2005-10-07

Shades Of Deep Purple (1968.) Deep Purple's first album.

INTRODUCTION:
In the seventies, they were hard rock gods. Right up until their disbanding in 1976, Deep Purple was one of the ultimate hard and heavy rock bands in the world. Their sheer musical brilliance and excellence was unrivaled. However, the group's origins and their sixties recordings are considerably less known than the material from their seventies heyday. So, just how is the band's material from the lesser-known Mark One band formation? Read on for my review of the band's very first full-length LP, Shades Of Deep Purple.

OVERVIEW:
Deep Purple released their debut album, Shades Of Deep Purple, in September of 1968.The Mark One incarnation of the band featured guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, vocalist Rod Evans, organist Jon Lord, drummer Ian Paice, and bassist Nick Simper. This record was engineered by Barry Ainsworth. Album tracklist consists of And The Address, Hush, One More Rainy Day Prelude/I'm So Glad, Mandrake Root, Help!, Love Help Me, and Hey Joe.

REVIEW:
There are a lot of mysteries in the world of classic rock. But one of the greatest mysteries of all would have to be why the Rod Evans era of Deep Purple is so underrated. In this early formative, the band used an organ-heavy, psychedelic sort of rock sound, heavily influenced by the American band Vanilla Fudge. Was this different from their more popular stuff with Ian Gillan? Yes. No denying, this was a different-sounding band. But theur music was still nothing short of excellent. With a mixture of unique compositions and cover tunes, the band's first record is, in my opinion, the best overall release of the three-album Mark One era. Let's take a look at the tracklist on this underrated gem.

-And The Address: The band starts off the album with this instrumental sequence. Normally I'm skeptical about when a band chooses to kick off an album with an instrumental, but this time around it was a good get. The sequences showcases the music-making abilities of all of the band members, and does a damn good job of it. This is a good "attention-getter" of a song, making it an ideal first track.

-Hush: This cover of a Joe South song became Deep Purple's first hit, and their biggest hit of the Rod Evans period. To put it simply, it's only appropriate that this song gained the lofty reputation it has. It's more than worthy of its spot in classic rock history.

-One More Rainy Day: A slower, more melodic tune with a pop-influenced sound. Surprisingly, this makes for some pretty good listening. Jon Lord's organ playing makes for nice backing instrumentation. A very underrated cut from the Mark One face of Deep Purple.

-Prelude/I'm So Glad: This is actually a medley of two pieces of music. The first of which is the instrumental sequence prelude, which like most things Deep Purple from this era, is very heavy on organ playing. It's a nice little instrumental sequence. Following it is a cover of the old Skip James blues tune, I'm So Glad, which was popularized in 1966 when Cream covered it. I've always enjoyed this song, but Deep Purple's version is by far the best version of it I have ever heard. It even blows Cream's version out of the water! To put it simply, every band member is in his prime on it. Enough said.

-Mandrake Root: This is Deep Purple Mark One doing what Deep Purple Mark One does best - organ-heavy psychedelic rock. And perhaps no track epitomizes that the way Mandrake Root does. Jon Lord is one of the most underrated organ players of all time. Just listen to this track's interlude about halfway through and you'll see why. Ian Paice really shines on the drums, too, particuarly in that same interlude. Underrated stuff here, but damn good.

-Help!: Deep Purple covers the Beatles classic. But they don't just do an inferior rehash of it. They slow the pace down considerably, making it into a gloomy and melodic tune, like only Deep Purple could do. I normally don't care much for Beatles covers because the bands that cover them usually fail terribly - and Deep Purple is NOT among the bands that fails at creating one.

-Love Help Me: This Ritchie Blackmore/Rod Evans-penned track is one of its most underrated and finest songs. The tune is short but sweet. Rod Evans absolutely shines on this track, like he does on no other. There is a lot of underrated but excellent stuff on this album, and this is one of the finest of the forgotten gems.

-Hey Joe: Here Deep Purple tries their hand at covering the blues standard popularized by Jimi Hendrix. Essentially, the band gives it the treatment they gave so many other songs - adding in lengthy psychedelic and organ heavy instrumental sequences not in the original song, and then giving the "normal" portions of the song a makeover, but staying true to the original all the while. What results is one of the finest versions of this old tune I have ever listened to. Give this version a chance - you'll be glad you did!

And that's Deep Purple's first album for you. Definitely a far cry from the band that became hard rock legends in the seventies, but still one hell of an awesome band. Sadly, this early formative would become one of the band's forgotten ages, with only a few tunes from it leaking through to the musical mainstream. Oh, well. It's not the popularity that counts, it's the music quality. And there is plenty of that to go around on this record. I highly recommend this to any classic rock fan! Don't make the all too common mistake of overlooking the band's early formative material!

EDITION NOTES:
Deep Purple's first three albums, the ones from the Mark One era, have all gotten remastered and reissued! On these reissues you get remastered sound quality, expanded liner notes, and even some rare bonus tracks! To put it simply, if you are going to buy these albums, make sure you're getting the remastered versions.

Average customer rating:

"Hey Joe" and all others that overlooked this the first time
Deep Purple's debut is a rock masterpiece
one of the best forgotten albums

Shades of Deep Purple
Deep Purple , and Mini Paper Album Sleeve
Manufacturer: Pid
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000006EB7
Release Date: 1998-07-20

Customer Reviews:

"Hey Joe" and all others that overlooked this the first time.......2007-06-26

As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various recordings from the 60's and 70's.

It's not uncommon that a rock and roll band has a history that is forgotten about. Many times, it is for the proper reasons. Deep Purple`s first incarnation "Mark I" had three terrific records. If they never created another note, they could be proud to have composed such great material.

While to most of the musical universe Deep Purple is "Mark 2" featuring the intense and strong vocals of Ian Gillian and Roger Glover on bass, the prior story begins in 1968. Rod Evans (One of the most underrated singers of the era) and Nick Simper (Bass) may not be household names but were very much a part of the foundation.

"Shades Of" isn't "In Rock." That is not a swipe in the least. It is only a warning to those that are looking for the more metal and improvisational side of the band. What the initial album consists of is terrific material and well-blended rock with Ritchie Blackmore already way ahead of the curve and only to get better.

"And The Address" opens with a tasty riff that you don't forget. It's a solid choice to lay down the landscape of what will follow.

"Hush" is indeed the cover of the Joe South tune. Purple may very well have the definitive version. It is still played on rock radio to this day.

"One More Rainy Day" features a well-crafted sound by Jon Lord on the keyboards. Evans vocal feel is superlative.

"Prelude"/"Happiness"/"I'm So Glad" covers the musical spectrum in a bit over seven minutes. "I'm So Glad" is the timeless tune written by Skip James that was made famous by the incredible Cream version. Purple chooses not to intensify it to that degree but finds a perfect direction using a mid-tempo arrangement and first rate drumming from Ian Paice.

"Mandrake Root" is Purple's first journey into the land of improvisation. As they explore uncharted waters, the band jells well. Jon Lord's keyboards are mixed high and it give a memorable performance.

"Help!" needs no introduction. The Beatles classic (Lennon/McCartney) is slowed down to a totally different and unique arrangement. The vocals are heartfelt and the results are pleasant!

"Love Help Me" pays homage to the psychedelic sounds of the 60's Although it may be the least known song on the record it clearly belongs.
"Hey Joe" closes the festivities. There is debate if Billy Roberts wrote the song but never a question how endless versions from Hendrix to Purple will live forever. This rendition isn't full of fire but it packs enough of a punch to get the job done.

Make sure to purchase the remaster with the five bonus tracks because "Shadows" is strong enough to have been included on the original disc.

Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"

Deep Purple's debut is a rock masterpiece.......2005-06-23

one of the best forgotten albums.......1998-07-24

THE ORIGINAL HEVY METAL GROUPS FIRST ALBUM IS THEIR BEST WITH THE GREAT GUITAR WORK ON MANDERICK ROOT AND THE JAZZ ROCK VERSION OF THE BEATLES HELP AND THEIR FIRST HIT HUSH IT IS A MASTERPEAC

Average customer rating:

DEEP PURPLE'S FIRST...UNDERRATED!!!
Awesome debut from the classic rock legends

Shades of Deep Purple
Deep Purple
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000006Y48
Release Date: 1998-10-20

Tracks:

And the Address
Hush
One More Rainy Day
Prelude: Happiness/I'm So Glad
Mandrake Root
Help!
Love Help Me
Hey Joe
Shadows [*][Outtake]
Love Help Me [Instrumental Version][*]
Help! [Alternate Take][*]
Hey Joe [BBC Top Gear Session][*]
Hush [Live US TV][*]

Customer Reviews:

DEEP PURPLE'S FIRST...UNDERRATED!!!.......2005-06-26

Ever since SHADES OF... appeared, Deep Purple set a pattern of being years ahead of their time.

When you first hear the opening track "And The Address," you are calmed by Jon Lord's Hammond organ, then he cranks it up for a sonic blast, he is joined by guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, drummer Ian Paice and bassist Nick Simper for the full on assault! Classic Deep Purple! "Hush" follows and is so psychedelic and ahead of its time....no wonder it's timeless! Then comes my favorite, the beautiful "One More Rainy Day" with it's nifty drum work to showcase Paice's talents. Then you slide right into "I'm So Glad" which really brings out the vocals of Rod Evans. And then it's "Hey Joe." Total excellence. I am convinced that this is a better cover version than Hendrix's. The jamming "Mandrake Root" comes next and is a great filler, something most bands never obtain. The Beatles song "Help" is also covered. It works! John Lennon once said, "That's the way the Beatles should have done it". Enough said. The rest of the songs (including bonus tracks) are great, too. The playing and the singing is fantastic. The sound quality is excellent.

This is vintage, progressive rock ahead of it's time for 1968. Sit back, crank this up, turn down the lights, and the sounds will take you away. Folks, this is a classic and a stellar way for Deep Purple to launch their historic career. Quit comparing and just enjoy this unique and cool first album. Totally underrated.

Awesome debut from the classic rock legends.......2004-01-22

Shades Of Deep Purple (1968.) The first Deep Purple studio album.

INTRODUCTION:
Deep Purple, over the years, became one of the most well-known and respected hard rock acts of all time. With numerous band lineups and a sound all their own that was constantly evolving, it's not hard to see how the band managed to hold a following all that time. The band's first recording lineup, commonly called the Mark One lineup, was born out of the remains of Roundabout, a group first formed by former Searchers drummer Chris Curtis. In 1968, the group released their very first album, Shades Of Deep Purple. Read on for my review of the band's debut!

OVERVIEW:
Shades Of Deep Purple was released in September of 1968. The album featured Deep Purple's Mark One lineup of vocalist Rod Evans, bassist Nick Simper, guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, drummer Ian Paice, and keyboardist/organist Jon Lord. Derek Lawrence produced the album. Tracklist consists of And The Address, Hush, One More Rainy Day, Prelude: Happiness/I'm So Glad, Mandrake Root, Help!, Love Help Me, and Hey Joe.

REVIEW:
Deep Purple's first album, as it has often been said, is a product of the era in which it is created. In their early formative period, the band was a far cry from the Ian Gillan period the band would mostly be remembered and loved for. But just the same, even in the days when Rod Evans was frontman, the band was already creating a sound all their own. A sound that was a true classic for the ages. From day one these guys sounded excellent, even if they hadn't quite found that classic sound most people would associate the band with. In their early days, an organ-intensive psychedelic hard rock approach, not unlike that of American band Vanilla Fudge, was the approach the band took. But just the same, the band was developing a sound that was all their own, despite numerous outside influences. Keep reading for the track-by-track analysis!

-SIDE ONE-

-And The Address (Blackmore/Lord):
To start things off, the band serves up this instrumental sequence. Blackmore and Lord wrote this piece together, so not surprisingly, guitar and organ are the main instruments used here. Both men absolutely shine on this piece. The sound of this one is both distinctly sixties and distinctly Mark One Deep Purple. Damn good opener.

-Hush (Joe South):
The big hit to come from the album was this, a cover of a song by Joe South. This is the biggest hit that ever emerged from the band's Mark One days, and is the only song from this period that still tends to get radio play on a regular basis. Once again the band is in fine form. There's a reason this was the most popular song from this era!

-One More Rainy Day (Evans/Lord):
For this track, the band slows down the pace of things, creating a mid-paced, semi-melodic rocker. The vocals Evans serves up this time around are nothing short of excellent. There are a number of songs from this era of the band that should have been big hits but were not - this is a prime example. It's addictive, and once you hear it you'll agree.

-Medley

A) Prelude: Happiness (Blackmore/Evans/Lord/Paice/Simper):
The prelude instrumental sequence that kicks off this two-part medley is the organ-intensive affair you would expect from Deep Purple in this era. Jon Lord's organ playing here is arguably at its best on the album on this track. The rest of the band members are no slouches either. Nice way to start the medley

B) I'm So Glad (Skip James):
The band takes the Skip James blues classic and breathes new life into it. Although it's Cream's version of this song that got all the fame, Deep Purple's version is the undisputed best. Everyone in the band is on fire here. With the organ and psychedelic touch, it's obvious that this song has never sounded better.

-SIDE TWO-

-Mandrake Root (Blackmore/Evans/Lord):
Straight-up sixties-flavored rock done right. Once again, the band serves up classic psychedelic-flavored rock as only the Mark One lineup could do. The organ playing on this tune is phenomenal. For its six-minute-plus duration, this track never gets boring. Definitely one of my favorite cuts from the Mark One lineup.

-Help! (John Lennon/Paul McCartney):
It's not at all uncommon for a rock band, regardless of genre and era, to do a Beatles cover. Deep Purple's version of this classic cut is definitely one of the finest Beatles covers I have ever heard. The band slows down the pace of the tune and makes it very gloomy and dramatic. A far cry from the original version of the song, but no less excellent. You need to hear it to believe it.

-Love Help Me (Blackmore/Evans):
This is an upbeat, classic sixties rocker - but it's got just enough of those elements that make it uniquely a Mark One Deep Purple song. The song is very catchy, and definitely one of the finest Mark One tunes. Had this song been released as a single and been promoted more, I am certain it could have been a huge hit for the band.

-Hey Joe (Billy Roberts):
Byrds, Love, Jimi Hendrix. And now Deep Purple adds their name to the roster of the many groups that have covered this old Billy Roberts blues tune. The Deep Purple approach to this song is similar to the approach they did for most songs in the Mark One era - add an extended instrumental intro, and lots of organ. It worked for the other songs on the album, and it works here too.

OVERALL:
Ultimately, the first release from Deep Purple is a damn good one. It's not the band most people know and love (seems most people only seem to know and love the Ian Gillan/Mark Two period), but it's still a damn good album. If you're a fan of the band and want to see what they sounded like when they were getting started, their debut is well worth picking up. Don't make the mistake of overlooking the Mark One albums - they are masterpieces in their own right. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

EDITION NOTES:
All three of the Mark One albums were recently remastered and reissued. In addition to having the sound be remastered to sound better than any previous issue of the album, these reissues all include bonus tracks. The bonus tracks include BBC sessions, live versions, unreleased outtakes, alternate takes, etc. If you're going to buy these albums, make sure you get the remastered ones!

Average customer rating:

"Hey Joe" this is for you and all others that missed it the first time!
Underrated debut from the rock legends
What the Hell !! This is the Genesis of LEGENDS !!!

Shades Of Deep Purple (Debut)

Manufacturer: Creative Sounds, Ltd.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000B413ZQ

Product Description

Digitally remastered debut album. Tracks: 1.And The Address 2.Hush 3.One More Rainy Day 4.a.Prelude: Happiness/ b.I'm So Glad 5.Mandrake Root 6.Help 7.Love Me Help 8.Hey Joe.

Customer Reviews:

"Hey Joe" this is for you and all others that missed it the first time!.......2007-06-26

As the author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent" and a former radio disc-jockey, I am often asked to write and or discuss various recordings from the 60's and 70's.

It's not uncommon that a rock and roll band has a history that is forgotten about. Many times, it is for the proper reasons. Deep Purple`s first incarnation "Mark I" had three terrific records. If they never created another note, they could be proud to have composed such great material.

While to most of the musical universe Deep Purple is "Mark 2" featuring the intense and strong vocals of Ian Gillian and Roger Glover on bass, the prior story begins in 1968. Rod Evans (One of the most underrated singers of the era) and Nick Simper (Bass) may not be household names but were very much a part of the foundation.

"Shades Of" isn't "In Rock." That is not a swipe in the least. It is only a warning to those that are looking for the more metal and improvisational side of the band. What the initial album consists of is terrific material and well-blended rock with Ritchie Blackmore already way ahead of the curve and only to get better.

"And The Address" opens with a tasty riff that you don't forget. It's a solid choice to lay down the landscape of what will follow.

"Hush" is indeed the cover of the Joe South tune. Purple may very well have the definitive version. It is still played on rock radio to this day.

"One More Rainy Day" features a well-crafted sound by Jon Lord on the keyboards. Evans vocal feel is superlative.

"Prelude"/"Happiness"/"I'm So Glad" covers the musical spectrum in a bit over seven minutes. "I'm So Glad" is the timeless tune written by Skip James that was made famous by the incredible Cream version. Purple chooses not to intensify it to that degree but finds a perfect direction using a mid-tempo arrangement and first rate drumming from Ian Paice.

"Mandrake Root" is Purple's first journey into the land of improvisation. As they explore uncharted waters, the band jells well. Jon Lord's keyboards are mixed high giving a memorable performance.

"Help!" needs no introduction. The Beatles classic (Lennon/McCartney) is slowed down to a totally different and unique arrangement. The vocals are heartfelt and the results are pleasant!

"Love Help Me" pays homage to the psychedelic sounds of the 60's Although it may be the least known song on the record it clearly belongs.

"Hey Joe" closes the festivities. There is debate if Billy Roberts wrote the song but never a question how endless versions from Hendrix to Purple will live forever. This rendition isn't full of fire but it packs enough of a punch to get the job done.

Make sure to purchase the remaster with the five bonus tracks because "Shadows" is strong enough to have been included on the original disc. If you do not see "remastered + Bonus" look a bit further. Amazon proudly sells it!

Enjoy the music and be well,
Craig Fenton
Author of the Jefferson Airplane book "Take Me To A Circus Tent"

Underrated debut from the rock legends.......2006-07-21

What the Hell !! This is the Genesis of LEGENDS !!!.......2006-02-08

I don't have the remastered version.....but I can say 1 thing,
at 3.50 being the lowest priced copy available - You would be considered foolish if you DIDN'T BUY this one !!!
In fact, I am going to go as far as to recommend the entire catalouge !! Sell yer wedding bands and get the lead out friends
This is 1968, I was a year old - and I'll be playing this stuff to my kids in their mothers WOMB !! Mr. Blackbore ( I know I hate too even write it, but some of his releases with this dear wife, just don't cut the Grey Poupon for me........nevertheless, buy them too...after you have all the Purples,Rainbow and Dio albums !!!!
Ronnie J. Dio is pushing 65 ................yee haw !!!!!
While we are at it - Ritchie B'mores Rainbow, the debut is worth it's weight in tetra-hydra-cannibanal !!!!!
If you know a lesbian - buy them a Rainbow album, play dumb and pretend you thought it was pro-lesbian. Then retreive it from the wastebasket for yerself !!!!!!!!! Peace All

Average customer rating:

4.5 stars - Shades of excellence

Shades of Deep Purple
Deep Purple
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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General | Classic Rock | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00005630C

Customer Reviews:

4.5 stars - Shades of excellence.......2004-03-20

Shades Of Deep Purple (1968.) Deep Purple's first album.

In 1968, a then little-known British rock band known as Deep Purple released its debut album, appropriately entitled Shades Of Deep Purple. This was released a few years before Ian Gillan and Roger Glover joined the band, and gave them their popular "classic hard rock/metal" sound. This and the two follow-up albums feature original vocalist Rod Evans, and more of a straight-up psychedelic rock sound than what you're probably used to hearing from the band. Either way, read on for my review of Shades Of Deep Purple.

The album kicks off with And The Address, an interesting little instrumental session. In this session, drums and the organ are the main instruments. Surprisingly, this works well. A good openng track. Hush was Deep Purple's first big hit (and only major hit NOT to feature Ian Gillan singing) was this, a cover of a Joe South song. Evans' vocals are top notch here, and the rest of the band plays well too. This song deserves all the credit it gets. One More Rainy Day is a bit more on the slow and melodic side than the last two tracks were. The vocals and the organ usage here are very nice. Prelude: Happiness I'm So Glad kicks off with an extended instrumental session in which the organ is the main instrument (similar to the album's opening track), and then it becomes a psychedelic rocker. Overall, a good track. Mandrake Root, a blues-based hard rocker. is the closest thing on the album to the metal sound that would make Deep Purple popular in the early seventies. ANOTHER excellent track, and a highly underrated one. Help is a cover of the Beatles song. However, Deep Purple slows things WAY down, and makes the song considerably more gloomy than the Fab Four's original (I feel Deep Purple's sound suits the depressing lyrics a little better, actually.) Once again, the organ is the main instrument. Love Help Me is my favorite track on the album. It's very interesting, because the sound is something like "Iron Butterfly meets Green Day". It's an interesting track that must be heard to be appreciated. Hey Joe is a cover of the Jimi Hendrix classic. However, Deep Purple has added an extended instrumental opening sequence, in which, you guessed it, the organ is the main instrument. Surprisingly, the main portion of the song isn't too far off from the original.

The new reissue of the album features five rare bonus tracks. Shadows, an album outtake, is the first one. This song never made it onto the final version of the album. Why that is I will never know, because this song is GREAT! The chorus here is priceless. Don't skip this one just because it's an outtake, or you'll regret it! The instrumental version of Love Help Me is exactly what it says it is. The alternate take of Help is, once again, a track that is exactly what it says it is. It's a less polished version of the "normal" version of the track, with some slightly different vocal delivery. There are two main differences between the BBC Top Gear version of Hey Joe and its studio counterpart. One, it lacks the extended instrumental opener. Two, the vocal delivery is a little slower. Not as good as the studio one, but still a nice bonus track. Hush is a great song, and this United States television performance is a good performance, BUT THE SOUND QUALITY HERE IS GODAWFUL! Couldn't they have found a live version of the song with better sound quality? These bonus tracks, though not exactly masterpieces, are a nice bonus.

Overall, Shades Of Deep Purple is an excellent debut album, and is strongly recommended to all fans of the band. Take my advice though - DO NOT GET ANY VERSION OF DEEP PURPLE'S FIRST THREE ALBUMS, UNLESS THEY ARE THE REISSUES! The original versions don't have the bonus tracks, and the sound quality is just terrible. These ones will say "The Original Deep Purple Collection" at the top center of the packaging. To put it simply, if you're a fan of Deep Purple or classic rock in general, this album is highly recommended - just make sure you buy THIS version!

Music Review:

Music Review

Music Review

1. And The Address
2. Hush
3. One More Rainy Day
4. Prelude Happiness Im So Glad
5. Mandrake Root
6. Help
7. Love Help Me
8. Hey Joe
9. Shadows (Out Take) (Bonus Track)
10. Love Help Me (Inst Vsn) (Bonus Track)
11. Help (Alt Take) (Bonus Track)
12. Hey Joe (Radio Session) (Bonus Track)
13. Hush (Live US TV) (Bonus Track)