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"

this fantastic debut by Deep Purple has a great early progressive sound to it--but for me the best selling point is Jon Lord's masterful organ work--if you want to hear some of the best keyboard work this side of Keith Emerson or Rick Wakeman listen especially to the Skip James classic "i'm so glad",probably my all time favorite song.of course "hush"speaks for itself.the Purple do a wonderful version of "help",and the finally released little gem "shadows"is icing on the cake.Ritchie Blackmore and company do themselves proud on their debut but to me the real star is Jon Lord.if you are a prog rock fan get this,you'll be "glad" you did.

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

The first lineup of Deep Purple and their first album. There were 2 more albums before the new lineup. These 3 albums are underrated.

.....playing w/And The Address leading it off, my best friend and I could only say "holy s..........". These guys and Vanilla Fudge ruled the Power Hammond scene!!!!!!!!!!!!