Deep Purple Albums Ranked Worst To Best
Let's get straight into it - Deep Purple is one of the most iconic rock bands of all time, with a discography that spans over five decades. From their early days as a psychedelic rock band to their later years as a hard-hitting metal outfit, Deep Purple has left an indelible mark on the music world. With over 100 million records sold worldwide, they're one of the best-selling bands of all time.
Ranking the Albums
We're about to dive into a definitive ranking of Deep Purple's albums, from worst to best - and trust us, it wasn't an easy task. With a catalog as extensive as theirs, there are bound to be some hidden gems and not-so-hidden duds. From the jazzy experimentation of Shield to the face-melting solos of Made in Japan, we'll explore it all.
The Bottom of the Barrel
We're not here to hate, but some albums just don't quite live up to the Purple standard - and Slaves and Masters is one of them. Released in 1990, this album marked a commercial nadir for the band, with lackluster songwriting and a general sense of creative stagnation. On the other hand, Who Do We Think We Are (1973) is often maligned by fans, but still has some bright spots - like the funky, proto-metal of Rat Bat Blue.
Must Read
As we make our way up the list, we start to encounter some real heavy hitters - like Fireball (1971), which marks a turning point in the band's career, with the introduction of rock staples like The Mule and Strange Kind of Woman. Meanwhile, Perfect Strangers (1984) is a comeback album of sorts, with the classic Purple sound making a triumphant return.
The Classic Era
The early 70s were truly the golden age of Deep Purple, with albums like In Rock (1970), Machine Head (1972), and Who Do We Think We Are (1973) cementing their status as hard rock legends. Machine Head, in particular, is a masterclass in songcraft and musicianship, with iconic tracks like S smoke on the Water and Highway Star.
Live Albums and the Ian Gillan Era
Of course, no discussion of Deep Purple would be complete without mentioning their live albums - and Made in Japan (1972) is the crème de la crème. Recorded over three nights in Osaka and Tokyo, this album is a
So, what can we learn from Deep Purple's enduring legacy? Perhaps it's the importance of evolving as artists, while still staying true to your roots. Or maybe it's the value of taking risks and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Whatever the lesson, one thing's for sure - Deep Purple's music will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.
Reflections
In the end, it's all about the music - and Deep Purple has given us a lifetime of unforgettable songs, albums, and performances. As we go about our daily lives, we can learn a thing or two from their creative persistence and unwavering dedication to their craft. So, next time you're feeling stuck or uninspired, just remember - there's always another song to be written, another album to be made, and another face-melting solo to be played.
Whether you're a die-hard Purple fan or just discovering their music, there's never been a better time to explore their discography and experience the magic of Deep Purple for yourself. With their incredible body of work and enduring influence on rock music, they're a true legend that will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come. And who knows - you might just discover a new favorite album or song to add to your daily playlist.
