Bonnet chimes in
Graham Bonnet was interviewed for Metal Mythos AfterShock, and while the bulk of 1-hour long conversation was devoted to Alcatrazz, it started with discussion of Rainbow and possibility of Blackmore returning to hard rock.
Graham’s bottom line: “I would not be surprised if nothing happens.”
He further elaborated his stance to Classic Rock:
The last time I had any communication with Ritchie about this was several years ago, when the subject of Rainbow reforming last came up. At the time, I thought there was just one man for the job – and that’s Ronnie James Dio. Sadly, his death in 2010 put paid to that idea.
I remember talking to Joe Lynn Turner back then. He insisted he was the logical choice for the band. But to most fans, it was always about Ronnie.
Joe still talks openly about being the only man for the job. However, I reckon he’s making a fool of himself by going on and on like this.
People can fantasise all they want about the Down To Earth five reuniting. But Cozy Powell is dead, and I can’t honestly see Roger Glover giving up Deep Purple for that. Nor, for the matter, would Don Airey.
If I were Ritchie, and determined to revive Rainbow, I’d find the best young talent out there and go for a fresh, new approach.
Ask yourself, what would be bigger? A Rainbow reunion with me or Joe, or Purple with Ian and Ritchie?
Before getting any speculations started, remember that Blackmore never mentioned any sort of reunion, be it with Rainbow or Purple. All he was talking about, whether seriously or not, was a few shows next June, playing Purple and Rainbow tunes with unspecified people. Gillan, on his part, just last year reiterated that although they have buried the proverbial hatchet, never the twain shall meet again.