Ian Gillan - One Eye to Morocco (Eagle) ***1/2

The title itself is a Polish linguistic expression. It points out a person who tunes out in the middle of conversation, and suddenly pays attention to something else. This writer being familiar with Polish language wondered how English-born Gillan knew it. The answer to that question is quickly explained inside the booklet. He got it from the source. The incident happened in Poland, and it’s rather funny how it all came to be. I’ll leave the exact explanation to be a secret. Let’s just say, Gillan the linguist he is, quickly picked up on the expression, and quickly made good use of it.

Musically, One Eye to Morocco, is a very laid back record. This is Gillan exposing his gentler side. There is an album Gillan made with Roger Glover back in the late 80s. It’s called Accidentally on Purpose. It was a very impressive album, but not overly noticed. The feel of this record reminds me of that particular mood.

One Eye to Morocco works best in the car. It’s a perfect driving companion. The laid back and relaxing qualities are ideal for the road. Gillan’s voice is as always in great shape, and superbly distinct. But, it is solo record, and Deep Purple it is not. No heavy hitting tracks here, Gillan leaves that for Purple.

The album is an example of an established artist getting music out of his system that normally would not fit the parameters of the band he is in. He is having fun, and enjoys himself to the max. The tracks on the album are filled with joy of making music, and are filled with confidence. Any time Gillan wants to make more solo records like this one, I will certainly purchase them.

Mark Kadzielawa