Album Info
| Artist: | Deep Purple |
| Album: | Machine Head |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Europe, 2022 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Highway Star | 6:05 |
| A2 | Maybe I'm A Leo | 4:51 |
| A3 | Pictures Of Home | 5:03 |
| A4 | Never Before | 3:56 |
| B1 | Smoke On The Water | 5:40 |
| B2 | Lazy | 7:19 |
| B3 | Space truckin' | 4:31 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
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- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Deep Purple's "Machine Head", released in March 1972, is often regarded as one of the quintessential hard rock albums of its era, and for good reason. The album captures the band at the height of their creative powers, blending raw energy, technical prowess, and a knack for crafting memorable riffs and melodies. Recorded in Montreux, Switzerland, under somewhat unusual circumstances, "Machine Head" has become a landmark in rock history, influencing countless bands and solidifying Deep Purple's place in the pantheon of rock legends.
The story behind the recording of "Machine Head" is almost as legendary as the music itself. The band had planned to record the album at the Montreux Casino using the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio, but their plans were disrupted when the casino burned down during a Frank Zappa concert. This incident, famously immortalised in the album's opening track "Smoke on the Water", forced the band to relocate to the Grand Hotel in Montreux, where they set up a makeshift studio. Despite these challenges, or perhaps because of them, the album exudes a sense of urgency and vitality that is palpable in every track.
"Smoke on the Water" is, of course, the album's most iconic song, with its instantly recognisable guitar riff and vivid lyrics recounting the events surrounding the fire. It's a track that has transcended its era, becoming a staple of rock radio and a rite of passage for aspiring guitarists. But "Machine Head" is far from a one-hit wonder. The album is packed with standout tracks, each showcasing a different facet of the band's sound.
"Highway Star", the album's opener, is a high-octane rocker that sets the tone with its driving rhythm, blistering guitar solos, and Ian Gillan's soaring vocals. It's a song that captures the thrill of the open road and the sheer power of rock 'n' roll. "Lazy", on the other hand, is a bluesy jam that highlights the virtuosity of keyboardist Jon Lord and guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, with its extended instrumental sections and playful interplay between the two.
One of the album's strengths is its balance between heavy, riff-driven tracks and more intricate, melodic compositions. "Space Truckin'" closes the album with a bang, its infectious groove and anthemic chorus making it a fan favourite. Meanwhile, "Pictures of Home" and "Maybe I'm a Leo" showcase the band's ability to craft songs that are both musically complex and immediately accessible.
The production on "Machine Head" is another highlight. The album has a warm, organic sound that captures the energy of the band's performances while allowing each instrument to shine. Roger Glover's bass lines are punchy and melodic, Ian Paice's drumming is dynamic and precise, and Jon Lord's Hammond organ adds a rich, textured layer to the music. Ritchie Blackmore's guitar work is nothing short of spectacular, with his inventive riffs and solos serving as the backbone of the album.
"Machine Head" was a commercial and critical success upon its release, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and earning widespread acclaim. Its impact on the rock genre cannot be overstated, as it helped to define the sound of hard rock and heavy metal in the 1970s. The album's influence can be heard in the music of bands ranging from Metallica to Iron Maiden, and its songs remain staples of Deep Purple's live performances to this day.
In the decades since its release, "Machine Head" has lost none of its power or appeal. It remains a testament to the enduring appeal of great rock music and a reminder of what can be achieved when a band is firing on all cylinders. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to Deep Purple's music, "Machine Head" is an album that deserves to be experienced in its entirety. It's a true classic that continues to inspire and captivate listeners around the world.
