"Into the fire" is the leading Deep Purple tribute band in Israel:
Rony Kotliar – Guitar
Lee Glassman – Bass
Oren Luka Glassman – Drums
Kfir Ben Aroia – Vocals
Ron Epstein – Keys
Deep Purple is a legendary British rock band that has had a profound influence on the development of hard rock and heavy metal. Known for their virtuosic musicianship, intense live performances, and the classic lineup featuring Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), Ian Gillan (vocals), Roger Glover (bass), Jon Lord (keyboard), and Ian Paice (drums), Deep Purple became one of the most commercially successful and enduring bands in rock history.
Unique Trivia and Details
The Birth of Hard Rock with "Smoke on the Water":
Deep Purple's iconic 1972 song "Smoke on the Water" is often credited as one of the first heavy metal anthems. The riff, played by Ritchie Blackmore, is one of the most recognizable in rock history. The song's lyrics are based on a fire that destroyed the casino in Montreux, Switzerland, where the band was recording their album Machine Head. The fire's aftermath led to the memorable line "Smoke on the water, fire in the sky."
"Made in Japan" – One of the Greatest Live Albums:
Released in 1973, Made in Japan is often regarded as one of the greatest live albums of all time. Capturing Deep Purple at the peak of their powers, the double album showcases their improvisational prowess and electrifying performances. The live versions of songs like "Highway Star," "Child in Time," and "Smoke on the Water" are considered definitive, demonstrating the band's mastery of blending hard rock with progressive rock elements.
Jon Lord’s Pioneering Use of the Hammond Organ:
Jon Lord, Deep Purple's original keyboardist, was a major influence on the development of rock keyboard playing. His use of the Hammond organ, especially in songs like "Lazy" and "Highway Star," set the band apart from other rock acts. His classical training allowed him to incorporate elements of classical music into rock, contributing to the band's distinctive sound. Lord's heavy, distorted organ sound was groundbreaking and helped define the hard rock genre.
Lineup Changes and "Mark" System:
Deep Purple is notorious for frequent lineup changes, leading to the band being classified into several "Mark" eras, such as Mark I (with Rod Evans on vocals) and Mark II (with Ian Gillan on vocals). The classic lineup—Mark II—is often considered the definitive Deep Purple era, producing their most iconic albums like Machine Head and In Rock. Despite the lineup shifts, the band's sound remained a blend of hard rock, progressive rock, and blues, maintaining a loyal fan base through the decades.
Ritchie Blackmore's Departure and Influence on Neo-Classical Metal:
Ritchie Blackmore, Deep Purple’s founding guitarist, was known for his virtuosic playing and theatrical presence. His departure from Deep Purple in 1975 marked the end of an era, but it also paved the way for him to form Rainbow, a band that further explored the fusion of hard rock and classical music. Blackmore’s influence on the development of neo-classical metal and his impact on guitar playing is immense, with many guitarists citing his innovative solos and technique as an inspiration.
"Deep Purple in Rock" – A Landmark Album:
The 1970 album Deep Purple in Rock is considered one of the first heavy metal albums. With hard-hitting songs like "Speed King" and "Child in Time," the album’s combination of heavy riffs, fast tempos, and operatic vocals was groundbreaking. It is a major influence on the development of metal and solidified Deep Purple's place as one of the pioneers of the genre. The album's aggressive sound and emphasis on virtuosity would influence countless bands in the years to come.
The First Band to Perform a "Heavy Metal" Concert:
Deep Purple is often credited as being one of the first bands to perform a "heavy metal" concert, long before the genre had officially taken shape. In the early '70s, Deep Purple's live shows, particularly their epic, extended improvisational jams and loud, aggressive sound, helped lay the groundwork for the heavy metal genre. Their intense, high-energy performances inspired bands like Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath, who would go on to define the genre in the coming years.
The "Purpendicular" Revival:
After a hiatus in the late '80s and early '90s, Deep Purple made a powerful comeback with their 1996 album Purpendicular. The album marked a shift towards a more modern sound, incorporating elements of grunge and alternative rock, while still retaining the classic Deep Purple energy. It was the first album to feature guitarist Steve Morse, whose addition to the band helped revitalize their sound and broaden their appeal to a new generation of fans.
Deep Purple’s Impact on Rock and Metal Subgenres:
Deep Purple's influence on both rock and metal subgenres cannot be overstated. Bands across the spectrum—ranging from classic rock to power metal and progressive rock—cite Deep Purple as an influence. Their pioneering blend of hard rock, progressive elements, and virtuosic musicianship laid the foundation for the rise of subgenres like power metal and symphonic rock, as well as influencing bands like Metallica, Iron Maiden, and Dream Theater.
A Guinness World Record for "Longest Running Band":
Deep Purple earned a Guinness World Record for "Longest Running Band" in 2016. Their career has spanned more than five decades, with the band still performing and recording new music. Despite lineup changes and various challenges throughout the years, Deep Purple has remained an enduring force in rock music, continuously evolving while staying true to their roots.
Hall of Fame Induction:
In 2016, Deep Purple was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their status as one of the most influential bands in rock history. Their induction was long overdue, as they had been a driving force in the creation of hard rock and heavy metal, with countless bands citing them as an inspiration. The band's enduring influence continues to shape the genre, even as newer generations discover their music.
Innovative Album Covers:
Deep Purple has had a history of iconic album covers that complement their bold musical style. Notably, the cover of Machine Head features a photograph of the Montreux Casino fire that inspired "Smoke on the Water." Additionally, In Rock's cover art (featuring a carved mountain with the faces of the band members) became an instant classic and has been referenced in pop culture numerous times.
Conclusion
Deep Purple is a band that helped define hard rock and heavy metal with their groundbreaking albums, iconic songs, and exceptional musicianship. With their influential sound and enduring legacy, Deep Purple remains a key figure in rock history. Through lineup changes, personal challenges, and evolving musical landscapes, Deep Purple continues to inspire new generations of fans and musicians. 