“Whitesnake-ified” Purple: Whitesnake Purple Album Analysis
After a four-year hiatus since their last release, the British mega-band Whitesnake delivered their much-anticipated twelfth studio album, The Purple Album. This release became a hot topic even before its debut, stirring debates and discussions among fans and critics alike. This project isn’t just another album—it’s a reimagined tribute to songs from the iconic mid-70s Deep Purple albums: Burn (1974), Stormbringer (1975), and Come Taste the Band (1976). Under the helm of Whitesnake’s frontman and former Deep Purple vocalist, David Coverdale, the album serves as a retrospective celebration of a particular era and a homage to the legacy of both bands.
However, understanding how The Purple Album came to life requires us to step back a few years into its origin story.
Origins: A Tribute to Deep Purple MK III and IV
The initial spark for The Purple Album ignited in 2012, inspired by the late Jon Lord, the legendary keyboardist and co-founder of Deep Purple. After being diagnosed with cancer, Lord shared his wish with Coverdale: a reunion of the Deep Purple MK III or IV lineup to revisit the music of that era and honor its memory. Coverdale enthusiastically embraced the idea. Tragically, Lord passed away before this vision could be realized.
Attempts to reconnect with guitarist Ritchie Blackmore followed, with discussions ranging from potential collaborations akin to Coverdale’s earlier Coverdale–Page project to selecting other members for the lineup, such as bassist Glenn Hughes or Roger Glover. However, despite initial interest, the project failed to materialize due to logistical challenges and creative differences. With the original plan abandoned, Coverdale decided, on the advice of his wife, to reinterpret these classic tracks with his own band, Whitesnake.
Challenges and Lineup Changes
The creation of The Purple Album was far from smooth sailing. Whitesnake faced personnel changes during the process, most notably the departure of long-time guitarist Doug Aldrich in 2014. Aldrich, who had co-written most of Whitesnake’s recent material and played a pivotal role for over a decade, cited personal reasons and the desire to explore other musical projects as factors for his departure.
Despite his exit, Aldrich’s contributions to the band’s sound and identity left an indelible mark. Replacing such a significant figure was no easy feat, but Whitesnake recruited Joel Hoekstra of Night Ranger fame, alongside elevating Reb Beach to a more prominent role. Together, they formed a formidable guitar duo, infusing the album with a blend of nostalgia and modernity.
A Modern Take on Classic Songs
Critics of The Purple Album often focused on two areas: Coverdale’s voice and the modernized arrangements. At 63, it’s understandable that Coverdale’s voice has evolved, but his vocal delivery remains passionate and commanding. The songs are adapted to suit his current range, with lower tonalities that retain the essence of their originals.
The arrangements are where Whitesnake-ification truly shines. While respecting the integrity of the original tracks, Whitesnake brought their signature dual-guitar style, creating a fresh yet respectful interpretation. Reb Beach and Joel Hoekstra faced the daunting task of honoring the iconic guitar work of Ritchie Blackmore and Tommy Bolin while adding their own flair. Their performance strikes a balance between homage and innovation, ensuring that the album feels contemporary while acknowledging its roots.
Key Tracks and Notable Adaptations
The album features reimagined versions of classics like “Burn,” “Stormbringer,” and “Mistreated,” with updated arrangements that reflect Whitesnake’s hard rock identity. Tracks like “Sail Away” underwent significant transformations, incorporating acoustic elements reminiscent of Blackmore’s Blackmore’s Night aesthetic. Meanwhile, songs like “Lady Luck” and “You Fool No One” showcase the synergy of the Beach-Hoekstra guitar tandem, adding a uniquely Whitesnake flavor.
Ballads like “Soldier of Fortune” and “You Keep on Moving” stand out as emotional highlights, with nuanced interpretations that evoke the timeless quality of the originals. The rhythm section, featuring bassist Michael Devin and drummer Tommy Aldridge, provides a solid foundation, complementing the album’s polished sound.
Controversy and Legacy
The reception to The Purple Album has been polarizing. Some fans and critics questioned the need for reinterpreting these classic tracks, while others viewed it as a heartfelt tribute. Coverdale’s decision to revisit his Deep Purple era, rather than creating entirely new material, drew criticism from those who perceived it as a lack of creativity. However, these critiques overlook the album’s intent: to preserve and celebrate a specific chapter of rock history.
Coverdale’s connection to these songs is deeply personal, as he was a key contributor to their creation during his early years with Deep Purple. By revisiting them with Whitesnake, he not only honors Jon Lord’s memory but also reintroduces this music to a new generation. The result is a testament to the enduring relevance and adaptability of 70s rock.
Final Thoughts
The Purple Album is more than a collection of re-recorded songs—it’s a bridge between past and present, a celebration of legacy, and a reflection of Coverdale’s unwavering passion for rock music. While it may not appease every critic, its significance lies in its intent and execution. With modern production, inspired performances, and a deep respect for its source material, the album stands as a fitting tribute to the timeless music of Deep Purple and the enduring spirit of Whitesnake.
As time passes, The Purple Album may be appreciated more for what it truly represents: a labor of love, a tribute to friendships and artistry, and a bold effort to keep the spirit of classic rock alive.
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