A NEW TRIBUTE TO A HARD ROCK INSTITUTION
“Purple Storm – A Tribute To Deep Purple” is not the first record to honor Deep Purple, but it stands out as one of the most engaging tribute albums in recent memory. The project brings together musicians from different bands to celebrate one of the foundational groups in hard rock and heavy metal. Deep Purple was always more than a heavy rock act, yet this tribute concentrates on the harder side of their catalog rather than the progressive or orchestral material. That choice suits the participating artists, who deliver powerful and convincing interpretations of the songs. By focusing on the riff driven and energetic side of the band’s legacy, the album captures the spirit that made Deep Purple a cornerstone of modern rock.
THE HITS RECEIVE FRESH ENERGY
Several well known tracks appear on the album. L.A. Guns contributes a high powered take on “Space Truckin'”. The all star version of “Smoke On The Water” features George Lynch from Dokken, Derek Sherinian from Alice Cooper, Vinny Appice from Dio, Graham Bonnet from Rainbow, and Joe Bouchard from Blue Oyster Cult. This recording is not a note for note copy, but the arrangement works well, and Bonnet’s vocals are especially strong. Angel also shines with a spirited rendition of “Woman From Tokyo”. The band keeps the core of the classic intact while adding its own distinctive style. Listeners familiar with the originals will recognize the melodies, yet the performances feel fresh because each group brings its own instrumental approach and vocal character to the material.
DEEP CUTS AND PROGRESSIVE TOUCHES
Because “Deep Purple” was primarily an album oriented group rather than a singles act, the tribute includes deeper selections. Thor and collaborators offer a strong version of “Speed King” from the 1970 record “Deep Purple In Rock”. The same source album supplies “Black Night”, which features Rick Wakeman alongside Bernie Shaw, Bob Daisley, Mick Box, and Simon Phillips. This track quietly introduces progressive elements into a heavy interpretation of the song, showing how versatile the original material remains. Other album oriented choices remind listeners that Deep Purple built its reputation on full length records, not just radio hits. The musicians involved treat these less familiar songs with the same care as the popular anthems.
WHY THIS TRIBUTE MATTERS
“Purple Storm – A Tribute To Deep Purple” feels sincere and respectful. Many of the performers have worked with members of Deep Purple over the years and belong to the same musical generation. That shared history lets them connect with the band’s legacy while still having the freedom to reshape the songs for their own styles. Deep Purple continues to tour, record, and write new music, so this album serves as both a thank you and an acknowledgment of their lasting influence on rock. Overall, this is an excellent tribute release that deserves attention from fans of classic and hard rock.
