Deep Purple Album: “Concerto For Group & Orchestra (Remastered)”

This was back when rock music was still progressing. The strength of an orchestra working with the power of a rock band. Deep Purple were the first band to integrate rock music with classical. The idea came from Jon Lord, Deep Purple's keyboardist.

The band have the muscle to avoid being buried by orchestration, yet manage to join forces with the orchestra. The outcome is a magnificent union that will delight those who care at all about music.

This set was recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall in London on September 24th, 1969 and was divided into three movements:

1st Movement: Allegretto.

2nd Movement: Allegro with lyrics by lead singer Ian Gillan.

3rd Movement: . Vivace presto which integrates a solo for Ian Paice on drums.

For only having two complete rehearsals, the outcome is absolutely amazing.

(Important note) Make sure to get the current release (import only, as of early 2003) which has been completely re-mixed to sound 100% better than the old CD and/or LP, it also includes a nice big booklet full of pictures and if that's not enough for you, a great bonus disc of the band performing a three song set before the Concerto.

Track 1: Hush - Perhaps a better version than the one we always hear on the radio, with Ian Gillan's incredible vocal delivery. Sounding almost like early Elvis at times.

The original album, released in 1970, had terrible sound. It was distorted and shrill. And a piece with so many soft passages didn't do well with the inherent surface noise of vinyl. In spite of that I completely wore out two copies of this album.

Now, this remix and remaster is nothing short of miraculous. Increased clarity and airiness are immediately apparent. But what really stands out is the group sections. Richie Blackmore's guitar parts...well I'm hearing things I never heard before. Roger Glover's bass now has a beautiful fullness and roundness. In fact the clarity of each group instrument is amazing. Get the picture? If you know and love this piece like I do, it's worth every penny of the high price. To say nothing of the additional three songs preceding the concerto. Ain't technology great?

Before Metallica, Deep purple was the second band to do an arrangement with an orchestra.(the moody blues the first). At first I didn't know what to think. But, after listening to it a few more times I dig it. Maybe not for the true metalhead.If you like classical music, you'll surely enjoy this one.

As a fan of Progressive Rock I'm always looking for more music listening pleasure. If you are a fan of Progressive Rock and/or a fan of the 2nd lineup of Deep Purple you will like this cd.

I heard this on vinyl as a kid, but somebody else got the record shortly after and I never saw it again. This CD version has great sound and I played it many times the first week. Probably better if you are already a Deep Purple fan. Blackmore/Gillian/Lord are superb this concert.