Deep Purple – Abandon (1998): A Modern Hard Rock Statement
By 1998, Deep Purple had firmly settled into their post-Blackmore era with Steve Morse on guitar, and the release of Abandon marked a confident statement of the band’s continued vitality. This fifteenth studio album reflects a band that had evolved with the times while staying true to their hard rock roots, blending classic energy with modern production and melodic sensibilities.
Album Overview
Album: Abandon
Artist: Deep Purple
Release Date: 23 February 1998
Label: EMI / Eagle Records
Genre: Hard rock, modern rock
Length: 59:10
Producer: Deep Purple & Pat Regan
The album features the lineup of Ian Gillan (vocals), Steve Morse (guitar), Jon Lord (keyboards), Roger Glover (bass), and Ian Paice (drums). Abandon continues the creative direction established with Purpendicular, showcasing Morse’s technical versatility and the band’s ability to combine hard-hitting riffs with melody-driven songs.
The album was recorded in Florida, with an emphasis on capturing both studio precision and the dynamic energy of live performance.
Mini Review
Abandon demonstrates Deep Purple’s continued relevance in the late 1990s rock scene. The album opens with “A Touch Away”, a driving rocker with tight riffs and strong vocals, immediately establishing the band’s renewed energy.
Standout tracks include “Any Fule Kno That”, which blends playful lyrics with complex instrumentation, and “Cascades: I’m Not Your Lover”, a melodic track with emotional depth. The album balances hard rock anthems, progressive experimentation, and bluesy elements, reflecting the band’s versatility and willingness to explore new sounds.
Steve Morse’s guitar work is a highlight throughout, providing intricate riffs, solos, and harmonics that refresh the Deep Purple sound while remaining faithful to their signature style. Gillan’s vocals remain commanding, and Lord’s keyboards continue to add the orchestral depth fans expect.
Tracklist
-
A Touch Away
-
Abandon
-
Don’t Make Me Happy
-
Cascades: I’m Not Your Lover
-
Any Fule Kno That
-
Haunted
-
Loosen My Strings
-
House of Pain
-
Wrong Man
-
The Aviator
-
Ted the Mechanic (live bonus track on some editions)
Notable Tracks
-
A Touch Away: Powerful opener with strong riffs and commanding vocals.
-
Abandon: Title track combining melodic hooks with hard-hitting energy.
-
Any Fule Kno That: Playful, progressive rock track showcasing technical skill.
-
Cascades: I’m Not Your Lover: Emotional and melodic, highlighting the band’s versatility.
-
Loosen My Strings: Bluesy, riff-driven number with memorable instrumentation.
Fun Facts & Trivia
-
Steve Morse Era: Abandon reinforces the band’s post-Blackmore sound, highlighting Morse’s guitar virtuosity.
-
Progressive Elements: The album experiments with unconventional song structures and intricate rhythms.
-
Continued Relevance: Demonstrates Deep Purple’s ability to produce modern-sounding hard rock in the late 1990s.
-
Live Favorites: Tracks like Any Fule Kno That and A Touch Away have been included in later tour setlists.
Goofs & Missteps
-
Some fans felt the album lacked the raw intensity of the 1970s classics.
-
Certain tracks lean toward polished, radio-friendly production, which may divide purists.
-
The album is less cohesive than previous releases, with a mix of experimental and conventional rock tracks.
Commercial Performance & Legacy
Abandon received moderate commercial success and critical acclaim for its strong musicianship and songwriting. It reinforced Deep Purple’s status as a band capable of evolving while maintaining their hard rock identity.
Over time, Abandon has been recognized as a key album of the Morse era, appreciated for its blend of classic energy, progressive experimentation, and melodic craftsmanship. Tracks from the album continue to feature in live performances, cementing its legacy within the band’s extensive catalog.
Conclusion
Abandon is a confident, modern hard rock album that captures Deep Purple’s continued evolution in the late 1990s. From the driving opener “A Touch Away” and title track “Abandon” to the progressive highlight “Any Fule Kno That” and melodic “Cascades: I’m Not Your Lover”, the album showcases the band’s technical skill, creativity, and enduring rock energy.
For fans of hard rock and Deep Purple’s post-Blackmore era, Abandon offers a dynamic, engaging, and essential listening experience.