Deep Purple Smoke On The Water

Concert at the Arena di Verona, a roman amphitheater originally built in 30 A. D, Live in Verona After a brief orchestral intro, things kick in with a rousing Highway Star. All these years on, and singer Ian Gillan is still able to deliver. Though not the fullon force of nature he was 40 years ago, he is powerful throughout the entire performance. Highlights are plenty: Hard Lovin Man, Maybe Im a Leo and Strange Kind of Woman are all done justice here. Though the presence of keyboard legend Jon Lord is missed, replacement Don Airey holds down the fort with respect. Meanwhile, this performance shines a bright light on the attributes of Steve Morse on guitar. He has certainly settled into his role in the band since joining in 1994. The orchestral backing here is never a distraction, and on certain songs (Rapture of the Deep and, surprisingly, Woman from Tokyo) it adds an unexpected dimension. That being said, and to be perfectly honest, they dont need any added power,