Deep Purple: “Machine Head” (Album Review)

Genres: Hard Rock, Blues Rock, Heavy Metal

        Deep Purple’s Machine Head kicks off with the upbeat track “Highway Star” and keeps a similar level of energy throughout the album. The aggression and expertly played parts by each band member, make this an attention grabbing album. The pure level of skill displayed by these musicians on Machine Head set Deep Purple apart from their hard rock peers, and explains why decades later many still consider this to be a great and timeless record.

        Even after five studio albums, Deep Purple did not run out of steam, and perhaps Machine Head is the result of the band becoming accustomed to playing together on a professional level. “Never Before” is the work of a well oiled machine, with each section of the song working in harmony to create a dynamic and vibrant track. Machine Head is rife with melodic guitar riffs, powerful percussion, and an overall sense of cohesion. 

        This album isn’t necessarily flawed in what it does wrong, however, there could be more work done to uplift it to a higher level. Deep Purple created these songs through improvisation and a little reworking, which ended up limiting the level of creative exploration. Too much of the album feels much of the same, with nothing sonically or lyrically jumping out and feeling unique to the band, something that only they could create.   

        Although Deep Purple didn’t run out of steam, it might be apt to say that the engine could have used more coal. Machine Head at its best is an excellent album, however, there are several moments across the record that just feel lazy (no pun intended) and uninspired. Many of the lyrics are average at best, to the point where songs could have remained instrumentals with how little they add. Spending more time developing and refining ideas would have made for less drag and strengthened the album compositionally. This may seem like a harsh review, but Machine Head is genuinely incredible for what it is; I just think it could have been better. Machine Head is a fun listen where you get a glimpse of talented musicians putting their skills in action. 

Favorite Tracks: Highway Star, Never Before, Smoke on the Water, Pictures of Home

Least Favorites: n/a

Enjoyment: Low 7

Critically: Mid 7

Arbitrary Number: 7.5