Deep Purple is a legendary rock band that has left an indelible mark on the music industry with their iconic music and album sleeve designs. One aspect that has often been overlooked but holds great significance is the artwork that graces their album covers. The album sleeve designs of Deep Purple have not only served as visual representations of their music but also hold hidden stories and meanings that aficionados of the band may find intriguing.
One of the most recognizable album covers in Deep Purple’s discography is the one for their 1972 album “Machine Head.” The artwork features a simple, yet bold design with a metallic sheen and the band’s name prominently displayed. What many fans may not know is that the idea for the cover actually came about as a result of a last-minute photo shoot. The band was touring in Montreux, Switzerland when their original plan for the cover fell through. In a stroke of brilliant improvisation, the band decided to use a photograph of a decommissioned building where they were set to record the album. The result was an iconic album cover that perfectly captured the energy and rawness of Deep Purple’s music.
Another album sleeve design that holds an interesting backstory is the cover of Deep Purple’s 1970 album “Deep Purple in Rock.” The artwork features a striking image of the band members’ faces superimposed onto a rocky outcrop. What many fans may not realize is that the idea for the cover actually came from the band’s guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore. Blackmore was inspired by the idea of melding the natural world with the band’s image to create a sense of unity and harmony. The end result was a visually stunning album cover that perfectly encapsulated the band’s heavy rock sound and rebellious spirit.
Moving on to the album “Burn,” released in 1974, Deep Purple once again showcased their love for intricate and meaningful artwork. The cover of “Burn” features a fiery illustration of a phoenix rising from the ashes, symbolizing rebirth and renewal. What fans may find intriguing is that the concept for the cover was actually suggested by the band’s then lead vocalist, David Coverdale. Coverdale felt that the phoenix motif perfectly captured the band’s new lineup and sound following a period of transition. The phoenix imagery on the album cover not only added a layer of depth to the band’s music but also hinted at the band’s resilience and ability to reinvent themselves.
One lesser-known album sleeve design that holds a hidden story is the cover of Deep Purple’s 1973 album “Who Do We Think We Are.” The artwork features an abstract illustration of intertwined faces in vibrant colors. What fans may not know is that the design was actually created by the band’s keyboardist, Jon Lord. Lord, who was also a talented artist, drew inspiration from the band’s touring experiences and the dynamic relationships between the band members. The abstract nature of the cover art reflects the band’s experimental approach to music and their willingness to push boundaries.
In conclusion, the album sleeve designs of Deep Purple are not just visually appealing but also hold hidden stories and meanings that add another layer of depth to the band’s music. From last-minute photo shoots to inspired artistic visions, each album cover tells a unique story that resonates with the band’s legacy. Next time you listen to a Deep Purple album, take a moment to appreciate the artwork that graces the cover, for behind every design lies a hidden story waiting to be discovered.