Deep Purple - Deepest Purple: The Very Best of Deep Purple (Compilation Album) (1980)
Deep Purple – Deepest Purple: The Very Best of Deep Purple (1980): Ultimate Hits Collection
Deep Purple, one of rock’s most iconic and influential bands, has left an indelible mark on hard rock and heavy metal. In 1980, the band released Deepest Purple: The Very Best of Deep Purple, a compilation that brings together the most essential tracks from their legendary career. This collection is a perfect introduction for new listeners and a must-have for longtime fans seeking a curated set of the band’s definitive songs.
Album Overview
Album: Deepest Purple: The Very Best of Deep Purple
Artist: Deep Purple
Release Date: 1980
Label: Warner Bros. / Purple Records
Genre: Hard rock, classic rock
Length: 47:25
Producer: Deep Purple
Deepest Purple gathers the most popular and influential songs from Deep Purple’s catalog, primarily focusing on the classic Mark II lineup, but also including material from later lineups. The compilation includes chart-topping singles, fan favorites, and tracks that highlight the band’s musical evolution.
The album provides a mix of hard-hitting rockers, bluesy jams, and melodic masterpieces, offering a well-rounded listening experience that demonstrates why Deep Purple remains a cornerstone of rock history.
Mini Review
Deepest Purple is a comprehensive and expertly curated compilation that captures the essence of Deep Purple’s sound. The album balances their biggest hits, such as “Smoke on the Water” and “Black Night”, with deeper album tracks that showcase the band’s musical sophistication.
The compilation flows smoothly, alternating between high-energy rockers and more melodic, introspective songs, giving listeners a sense of the band’s versatility. The iconic riffs, virtuosic solos, and Ian Gillan’s powerful vocals shine throughout, making the album both accessible to newcomers and satisfying for long-time fans.
Deepest Purple successfully distills the band’s vast catalog into one cohesive package, making it an essential entry point into Deep Purple’s world.
Notable Tracks
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Smoke on the Water: The quintessential Deep Purple anthem, with one of the most famous riffs in rock history.
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Black Night: Hard-hitting single with an unforgettable chorus and iconic guitar work.
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Child in Time: Epic and emotional, showcasing Gillan’s legendary vocal range and the band’s dynamic instrumental prowess.
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Highway Star: Fast-paced, virtuosic track that highlights the band’s technical skill and energy.
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Woman from Tokyo: A melodic yet hard-hitting single that demonstrates the band’s commercial and musical range.
Fun Facts & Trivia
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Ultimate Compilation: Considered one of the most comprehensive early compilations of Deep Purple’s work.
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Focus on Mark II: While later lineups are represented, the album mainly celebrates the classic Mark II era.
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Fan-Favorite Tracks: Many of the included songs became staples of the band’s live performances for decades.
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Accessible Introduction: Designed for new listeners, providing a curated overview of the band’s defining moments.
Goofs & Missteps
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Some tracks are edited or shortened versions, not the full album cuts.
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Certain fans note that a few notable songs were omitted in favor of a concise tracklist.
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Audio mastering varies slightly between tracks due to sourcing from different albums and singles.
Commercial Performance & Legacy
Deepest Purple was commercially successful and quickly became a reference point for the band’s greatest hits. The compilation reinforced Deep Purple’s status as one of rock’s most important bands and introduced new generations to their music.
Over time, it has become a go-to collection for fans and collectors seeking a well-rounded, concise representation of Deep Purple’s musical achievements. Its legacy continues in how it influenced later compilations that focus on both hits and key album tracks.
Conclusion
Deepest Purple: The Very Best of Deep Purple is an essential compilation for anyone looking to experience the band’s greatest moments. From the iconic “Smoke on the Water” and “Highway Star” to the emotional depth of “Child in Time”, the album showcases Deep Purple’s blend of technical skill, powerful riffs, and timeless songwriting.
Whether you’re discovering Deep Purple for the first time or revisiting their classic era, Deepest Purple delivers a definitive listening experience that celebrates the band’s legacy and enduring influence on rock music.
