Deep Purple - Come Taste The Band 35th Anniversary Edition (EMI)

"Come Taste The Band" was the only album Deep Purple did with guitarist Tommy Bolin. IT was also their last album, and the band ceased to exist until of course "Perfect Strangers" in 1984. While many question the relevance of this release, Deep Purple delivered a solid and very diverse album. Filled with a great mix of rock and funk. After 35 years, the album defends itself rather nicely, and the material is still impressive.

This reissue comes as a 2CD set. The first disc is the remastering of the original album. The second disc is a brand new remix by Kevin Shirley. Out of the two versions, Kevin Shirley remix has much more of a punch. Shirley was really able to bring out a lot of hidden strength into this record. It's a great luxury to be able to choose from the two versions. Also, the second disc includes two unreleased tracks, and the first disc offers a single version of "You Keep On Moving."

The booklet comes with very detailed liner notes form the particular period (1975-1976). It's very informative, and offers a great slice of Deep Purple history. A very impressive release. And being a diehard Deep Purple fan, a dream come true.

Mark Kadzielawa