Right to the point, the set list was a bit disappointing. While the inclusion of "When a Blind Man Cries"and "No One Came" was sweet, the loss of "Child in Time" was unfortunate. I was surprised, however, at the rejuvenated "Woman From Tokyo" and a few other classics. I could have done without "Hush" and added something like "Demon's Eye" or "No No No".

The talent in this band is unspeakable. A more talented and entertaining band does not exixt (well, Dio-era Sabbath is close).

While Purple came off magnificently, I nonetheless missed Blackmore. Morse is fantastic, and seemed comfortable but none of the solos, save part of "Highway Star", brought out the exotic, snake-charmer mystique of essential Deep Purple. But what can you do? Overall, they were amazing.

Other highlights: the band actually getting along, Jon Lord's increased prominence on stage, the loss of lasers and distracting stage setups.

Other lowlights: the opening band. Granted, the guitarist was profiecient on his instrument, but the songs were uninspired, boring.... well okay, they sucked. I would like to thank the guy in front of me with 80's rock hair. He adequately blocked my vision of that cornball bassist, while my fingers in my ears lessened the degree of pain derived from his tortured-animal vocal harmonies. How did they get the opening slot for Purple?

Dave Ertl

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