Deep Purple and Thin Lizzy Liv

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REVIEW BY: Kyle Roberts

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Not that KNAC really speaks of classic rock that often, but this show on 2/14/04 at the Wiltern LG in L.A. was one to be seen.

I arrived just in time for Thin Lizzy. I was almost late due to delays in getting my hotel room and transpo to the show (The NBA all-star game weekend shared the neighborhood accommodations.) Anyway, I have seen Thin Lizzy twice in the past few months and both shows were absolutely cool.

John Sykes is note for note perfect on all of Phil's accentuation. His guitar work is so sharp it makes you shake your head in appreciation. Gorham is still the most charismatic player out there. It's like a lesson in the making. So many have forgotten just what it takes to be a real rock act. Thin Lizzy shows up, all in their 45 plus years and brings you back to the time when integrity was alive and well.

DEEP PURPLE... what can I say other than "WOW." This was my first time seeing DP, although I've wanted to since I was 14 yrs old (now 32). Such talent displayed in a seasoned performance that tempted you not to blink. Ian Gillan came out looking rather preacher-like dressed in a white pajama-style ensemble, then had like three wardrobe changes during the night. He sounded simply amazing for lack of a better word. Still raspy-clean with the blistering highs.

Steve Morse on guitar was a nice welcome indeed. He was so precise and technical. Really stunning to hear him with the already incredible band. This was easily one of the most impressive shows I've seen. DP played the entire Machine Head album. They also gave us a taste of “Perfect Strangers,” “Knockin at Your Back Door” and a really cool instrumental, inspired by the shuttle tragedy called “Contact Lost,” written by Steve Morse. Beautiful piece.

I was hoping to hear “Child in Time,” but wasn't disappointed when it didn't appear on the set list. You can't ask for everything, but Ian would still be able to pull it off… trust me. All in all, a 10 on a 10 scale. Two thumbs up.