CD REVIEW: LIVE IN GRAZ 1975 by Deep Purple

LIVE IN GRAZ 1975 by Deep Purple
(Eagle Records)

On April 3, 1975 the Mk III line-up of DEEP PURPLE — guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, frontman David Coverdale, bassist/vocalist Glenn Hughes, keyboard player Jon Lord and drummer Ian Paice — performed at the Liebenauer ice rink, located on the outskirts of mountain-cradled Graz, Austria's second largest city after Vienna. The local press called the event, "Das Rockereignis des Jahres (The Rock Event Of The Year). Kicking off with a blazing performance of "Burn" 'Graz 1975' is a powerhouse eight-track ride, firing on all pistons. Featuring, "Stormbringer", "Gypsy", "Lady Double Dealer" and a smoking version of "Mistreated". No other recording captures these songs as well as this one. Ritchie Blackmore plays with controlled brutality. The vocal interplay between David Coverdale and Glenn Hughes has never sounded so good. And, of course, stalwarts Jon Lord and Ian Paice give it a good kicking — and then some! From beginning to end, "Graz 1975" showcases DEEP PURPLE Mk III at the absolute top — and also, ironically, at the end — of their game. - Highly Recommended
Tony @ The Dedicated Rocker Society/All Access Magazine