Deep Purple delivered an engaged and energetic performance at the Hallenstadion in Oerlikon on Friday evening, weathering multiple extended solos while leaning heavily into their 1970s catalog, according to a review in the Neue Zürcher Zeitung (nzz.ch). The band performed four tracks from their new record alongside classic numbers, concluding their set with “Smoke on the Water.”
Hallenstadion Performance and Setlist Execution
Friday’s concert featured two keyboard solos and a guitar solo, alongside four songs from the group’s new record. The Neue Zürcher Zeitung (nzz.ch) reported that the band successfully bridged their successful past with a modern lineup featuring musicians who understand their craft. Keyboarder Don Airey and guitarist Simon McBride delivered virtuosic instrumental performances, while singer Ian Gillan performed within his current vocal limits. The band balanced newer tracks with older 1970s material, highlighting their performance of “Lazy” from the “Machine Head” album.
The Montreux Casino Fire History
The band’s track, “Smoke on the Water,” references a historic fire at the Montreux Casino that occurred 55 years ago in December. During a concert by Frank Zappa and his Mothers, an audience member fired a flare gun inside the venue, burning the casino to the ground while members of Deep Purple watched from the audience. Bassist Roger Glover observed the smoke rising over Lake Geneva from the French shore and conceived the song’s chorus, later writing the lyrics with singer Ian Gillan.
Lineup Changes and Opening Act Contrast
Formed in the late 1960s, Deep Purple reached their best time in the 1970s while featuring keyboardist Jon Lord and lead guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, who created the band’s sound with a combination of Hammond organ and hard electric guitar. Both members are no longer with the group. The opening act, British band Jayler, demonstrated the enduring influence of the 1960s and 1970s era, with singer James Bartholomew drawing distinct stylistic comparisons to Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin.
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