In the rock and metal scene, a few bands are known to cause an argument of whether they make rock music or metal music. Arguably, Deep Purple is one of them.
Formed in 1968, Deep Purple is one of the first pioneers of both hard rock and heavy metal music. Considering the metal’s start at the time happened with bands such as Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Blue Cheer, it’s possible to put Deep Purple on the list as well.
Known for their heavy guitar riffs and powerful vocals with a mix of blues, classical, and even funk, Deep Purple is often considered a hard rock band, though some of the particular songs might prove wrong. Here is a list of songs to prove the heavy sound of Deep Purple.
‘Hard Lovin’ Man’
Overall having the elements of heavy metal with their 1970 album, ‘Deep Purple in Rock,’ this particular song is one of the examples to point out as an early heavy metal track. Ritchie Blackmore’s fast guitar solo and riffs in the song touch on the element of heavy metal, which is often considered one of the earliest speed metal riffs. Additionally, Ian Gillan was considered to be one of the few people who could scream that high.
‘Child In Time’
Another one from the ‘In Rock’ album. Though this one starts a bit slower and feels like it will not turn into a heavier song, as the song continues, the drums get more aggressive, turning it into a heavier track than their other stuff.
‘Speed King’
This one is the essential heavy metal song of the band, and yes, another one from the same album. ‘Speed King’ has been considered the heaviest track of Deep Purple by the fans. The riffs are notably heavier than the aforementioned two songs. The track eventually turns more melodic and then goes back to its initial sound through the end. If you want to discover the heavier side of Deep Purple, this one song is a must-listen.
‘Highway Star’
Two years after ‘In Rock,’ Deep Purple released another classic, ‘Machinehead.’ Their sound might be different than that of the previous album, but they did not forget to include heavy songs on this album either. The riffs give the song not only a metal atmosphere but rather a speed metal atmosphere.
‘Into The Fire’
Yet another one from ‘In Rock.’ This one rather has chunkier riffs, and more Gillan screams compared to other tracks, and it sure is a must-listen for heavier music fans.
