Submitted photo
Pictured is the new Deep Purple album cover.

Deep Purple’s 23rd studio album, =1, solidifies the band’s recent creative renaissance. Released on July 19, this album showcases a group reinvigorated, building on the momentum of their recent releases.

The album’s title, “=1,” alludes to a concept of unity, though the 13 tracks focus more on delivering solid hard rock than exploring deep philosophical themes. This straightforward approach serves the band well, allowing them to play to their strengths.

The opening track, “Show Me,” sets the tone, immediately demonstrating the band’s renewed energy. Ian Gillan’s vocals, while no longer reaching the stratospheric highs of his youth, convey a seasoned expressiveness. His delivery throughout the album carries a hint of playful swagger, perfectly suited to Deep Purple’s bluesy hard rock style.

The album’s second track, “A Bit on the Side,” further cements the band’s commitment to their classic sound while showcasing their evolving musicianship. This balance between honoring their past and pushing forward defines much of the album’s appeal.

Newcomer Simon McBride, replacing Steve Morse on guitar, proves a worthy addition to the lineup. His interplay with keyboardist Don Airey on tracks like “A Bit on the Side” and “Sharp Shooter” recalls the classic Deep Purple sound while infusing it with fresh energy. These performances honor the band’s legacy without resorting to mere nostalgia.

The rhythm section of Roger Glover (bass) and Ian Paice (drums) remains as tight as ever, providing a rock-solid foundation for the band’s explorations. Their work on “Lazy Sod” drives the song’s strutting blues feel, showcasing Deep Purple’s enduring connection to their roots.

Producer Bob Ezrin, collaborating with the band for the fifth consecutive album, continues to bring out the best in Deep Purple. The production strikes a balance between modern clarity and classic rock punch, allowing each instrument room to breathe while maintaining the band’s signature wall of sound.

Standout tracks include “Portable Door,” which harkens back to the band’s ’70s heyday, and “Old-Fangled Thing,” which shows Deep Purple’s ability to craft memorable riffs and hooks. The album’s longer cuts, like the closing “Bleeding Obvious,” give the band room to stretch out and flex their considerable musical muscles.

“If I Were You” stands out as a particularly poignant moment on the album. Gillan’s introspective lyrics, coupled with the band’s restrained yet emotive performance, create a powerful ballad that ranks among the album’s highlights. This track showcases Deep Purple’s versatility, proving they’re equally adept at crafting quieter, more reflective pieces as they are at delivering hard-hitting rockers.

While =1 occasionally loses steam in its latter half and could benefit from some trimming, it overall stands as a strong entry in Deep Purple’s extensive discography. The album proves the band’s continued relevance in the hard rock landscape, showcasing a group that refuses to rest on its laurels.

The new album captures the essence of what made Deep Purple icons of rock while demonstrating their continued ability to innovate and inspire. For both longtime devotees and newcomers to Deep Purple’s music, this album offers a compelling listening experience.

Grade: B+

Running Time: 52:06

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Brian Carson is a reporter for The Sentinel.