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‘Purpendicular’ is not only the name of the 15th album by the legendary rock band Deep Purple. It is also the name of a band that celebrates the 1970s rock phenomenon. Founded in 2007 by Robby Thomas Walsh, the band features none other than Deep Purple founding member Ian Paice on drums on Purpendicular’s fourth studio album.
Review from "https://markusheavymusicblog.org/2025/10/10/review-purpendicular-feat-ian-paice-banned/"
The title of this album is “Banned”, a record featuring nine songs. A closer look at the cover artwork reveals that the last two letters before the final ‘D’ have been crossed out, which is connected to the background of this release.
The band met in a remote location in the mountains near Porto, Portugal, where a fire broke out on the first night. Having been rescued from this devastating experience and having watched the fire from a safer place, the band had additional thoughts about the concept of “Banned”. The idea was to address a sensitive time when words could get you banned in an instant. Having experienced such a dramatic situation that night, the band broadened their perspective.
Songs like the title track are statements for freedom of speech, while “Blood Red Moon” is more connected to the recent experience.
Musically, Purpendicular leaves no doubt as to where the inspiration comes from. Robby Thomas Walsh’s voice is stunningly close to the iconic voice of Ian Gillan, yet he has his own identity, as can be heard during the progressively swinging title track.
“Inferno” starts the album and it is a peaceful and keyboard driven beginning that reminded me in parts of Pink Floyds’ sound before handing over things seamlessly to the grooving “The Beast”. The latter is one of the darker tunes on the album, alongside true homages to the iconic classic rock band in songs like “You Better Behave” and the throbbing “Too Hard to Please”.
Purpendicular are a band inspired by the sound of Deep Purple and 1970s rock. Their music features classic rock riffs and the signature sound of the Hammond organ. At the same time, they have found their own musical identity, avoiding the pitfall of copying the artists that inspired them, a quality that is reflected in the song “Seventies Kid”.
“The End” is an emotional milestone of the album the band placed at the end of the tracklist. Walsh’s expressive vocals are a key element of this immediately touching song.
“Banned” is an exciting album that will delight fans of classic rock. It captures the spirit of the 1970s in a contemporary context. Well-crafted music and emotional intensity come together to create a standout album.
Episode 45 Purpendicular Ian Paice {Band) "Banned"
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