Review & Photography by Manny Manson for MPM
The BP Pulse Arena, a venue rich with rock history, is the perfect setting for a night that is destined go down in rock memory as an epic encounter between two legendary bands.
Still affectionately known as the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) it has been rebranded many times over the years, this arena has hosted countless classic performances and will continue to do so, but on this occasion, it felt as if time itself had been suspended, and rock history was about to be written once again as DEEP PURPLE, the rock titans, and REEF, the groove-driven rockers from the heart of Britain, have each brought their unique energy to its stage. Fans waited eagerly for the legendary sounds to fill the arena, the ‘invisible airwaves’ were certainly crackling with life as the electric energy soared inside the venue. The mix of old-school rockers and younger generations were ready to witness the rock royalty of DEEP PURPLE, paired with the raw, unbridled energy of REEF, tonight promised to be one of stunning musical alchemy.
REEF, the British rock stalwarts hailing from Glastonbury, bring a warm, nostalgic energy to the night. Formed in 1993, REEF’s current lineup includes Gary Stringer’s soulful, gravelly vocals, Jack Bessant’s melodic yet powerful bass, Amy Newton’s blazing guitar riffs, and Luke Bullen’s rock-solid drumming. Together, they represented the quintessential ’90s British rock sound, filled with bluesy licks and driving, earnest lyrics. Known for their breakthrough album ‘Glow’ (1997), which launched them into rock superstardom with “Place Your Hands,” REEF’s earlier releases like ‘Replenish’ (1995) deliver a rawer sound, while their return to the scene with ‘Revelation’ in 2018 marked a new refreshed approach.
They opened with “Stone for Your Love,” from ‘Revelation’ (2018), an anthem of gritty determination that set a steady pace. Amy Newton’s guitar riff was sharp and precise, blending perfectly with Jack Bessant’s low-end groove. Gary’s voice roared through the venue, carrying that raw edge that has become a REEF signature. As they moved into “Naked” from ‘Glow’, parts of the crowd were already singing along, swept up in the nostalgia. Jack’s thundering bass provided a driving undertone, and Gary’s vocals reached new heights.
“Higher Vibration,” another track from ‘Glow’, pushed the crowd into full-on party mode. The song’s positive vibe and uplifting lyrics were contagious. The band leaned into the groove, with Luke Bullen adding flair to each beat, amplifying the song’s feel-good spirit. “Consideration” then slowed things down slightly. From ‘Replenish’, this song is REEF at their reflective best, and in this live setting, it became even more intimate. Luke’s steady, subdued rhythm and Amy’s clean strumming highlighted Gary’s impassioned vocal performance.
Next, “I’ve Got Something to Say” brought yet another layer of soul searching. Gary’s vocals were soft yet powerful as he strummed his acoustic guitar, while Jack’s bass brought in a steady, stifled thunderous groove. This was REEF at their most reflective, revealing a band that, even decades on, can still connect deeply with their audience. The crowd’s excitement obviously peaked with “Place Your Hands,” the quintessential REEF anthem. From its unforgettable intro riff to Gary’s explosive vocals, it was the highlight of the set. Amy’s guitar was crisp, adding that distinct edge, while Jack’s bassline pulsed through the entire arena. Every voice in the crowd joined in, singing the song that defined REEF’s career.
Continuing with “Refugee” from ‘Revelation’, they leaned into a heavier rock sound. Amy’s guitar work shone as she added layers of intensity, while Jack’s bass and Luke’s drumming propelled the song forward. The lyrics, filled with themes of survival and resilience, resonated powerfully. Sliding into “I Would Have Left You,” another track from their recent album, showed how REEF has matured over the years. It was a passionate, heavy number, with Gary pouring his soul into every line and Jack’s bass providing a brooding backdrop. Finally, they closed with “Summer’s in Bloom,” another fan favourite from ‘Glow’ that captures the carefree feel of a British summer (do you remember them?).
The song’s anthemic quality, paired with Luke’s lively drum work, was the perfect closer for REEF’s dynamic set.
Formed in 1968, DEEP PURPLE have etched themselves into the annals of rock history with albums like ‘In Rock’ (1970), ‘Machine Head’ (1972), and ‘Burn’ (1974). Their current lineup, featuring Ian Gillan on vocals, Roger Glover on bass, Ian Paice on drums, Don Airey on keyboards, and Simon McBride on guitar, brings both reverence and a fresh energy to these rock icons. McBride, filling the shoes of Steve Morse, brings a modern edge to the band’s classic sound.
With the energy of the crowd now at an excitable fever pitch, the lights dimmed, and ‘Gustav Holst’s Mars’ the Bringer of War’ echoed dramatically through the arena. Images appeared on screens above the stage, each for the audience to ponder, with a final fiery DEEP PURPLE logo emblazoned in the background, this set the tone for the legendary band about to take the stage. As the music swirled, a sense of anticipation filled the air, the time had come for DEEP PURPLE to unleash their rock prowess.
The band stormed the stage with the unmistakable riff of “Highway Star”(from ‘Machine Head’ – 1972). And from the first note, it was clear that Ian Gillan’s voice, although long in years, was as commanding as ever, his powerful wails cutting through the arena. Simon McBride, the new guitarist who follows in the legendary footsteps of Ritchie Blackmore, and more recently the mighty “Steve Morse”, immediately made his presence known. His fiery guitar work, full of technique, yet packed with emotion. Don Airey’s keyboard work, as always, added an atmospheric element, weaving in and out of the sonic landscape, enhancing the intensity of the song. The entire band was locked in, with Ian Paice’s” drumming holding everything together with precision and power.
Next, “Bit on the Side”(from ‘= 1’ – 2024) took the audience into more jazz-infused territory. With its offbeat groove and complex instrumentation, the song felt like a fresh take on the familiar DEEP PURPLE sound. McBride’s guitar playing had a certain freedom to it, improvising through the song’s twists and turns while still staying grounded in the band’s tight rhythm section. Airey’s keys were exceptional, adding depth and texture to the track’s unorthodox structure. This was a moment where DEEP PURPLE flexed their musical muscle, reminding the crowd why they’re still one of the most innovative bands in rock.
The mood shifted as “Into the Fire”(from ‘In Rock’ – 1970) fired up, with the crowd getting swept into its ferocious groove. Gillan’s wailing vocals reverberated through the arena, while McBride’s guitar work screamed in response. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, with each player feeding off the others’ energy. Airey’s soaring organ and Paice’s thunderous drumming creating a maelstrom of sound that slammed into the crowd, sending them reeling. This was classic DEEP PURPLE in its rawest form, no frills, just rock and roll at its finest, and the crowd were loving it.
With “Uncommon Man”(from ‘Now What?! – 2013), the band took a more reflective turn, paying tribute to the late Jon Lord, whose presence was deeply missed. Simon McBride stood alone as he screamed and soared his way through an emotion packed solo to this great man before leading into this iconic song. Airey’s organ work was at the forefront here, haunting and atmospheric, creating an emotional moment that could be felt around the arena. Paice’s subtle drumming allowed the song’s melancholy beauty to shine through, while McBride’s further guitar solos added another layer of complexity and beauty. The entire band was in perfect harmony, honouring Lord’s legacy with a performance that was nothing short of breathtaking.
From one master piece to another, slam! they hit us with “Lazy Sod” (from ‘= 1’, – 2024) full of swagger and groove, jazz laden influences aplenty with Paice’s rhythmic precision and Airey’s almost swing like feel on the keys creating a dynamic flow. Gillan’s playful vocal is in contrast to the previous heavier songs and McBride’s solos are attitude filled, bluesy licks, the energy evident in every note played, this is another Gem from a great back catalogue. “Now You’re Talking”(from ‘= 1 – 2024) brings us a renewed burst of energy, with McBride’s fiery guitar work, once again adding new life to this underrated classic. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, and they can feel the electricity in the air as DEEP PURPLE ramped up the intensity one final time before heading into the next section of their set.
And then came “Lazy”(from ‘Machine Head’ – 1972). The track, known for its extended jams, gave the band ample space to show their musical prowess. Paice’s drumming was hypnotic, setting the stage for an instrumental breakdown that saw Airey’s keyboards stretch into new sonic realms. McBride’s guitar solos were scorching, while Gillan’s vocals added just the right touch of urgency. This was DEEP PURPLE at their finest, blending improvisation with a deep-rooted understanding of their musical prowess. The audience, utterly captivated, watched as the band effortlessly navigated through the intricacies of the track.
After “Lazy, “the band segued into the melancholy beauty of “When a Blind Man Cries”, (recorded during the ‘Machine Head ’sessions – late 1971). originally only released as the ‘B’-side to “Never Before” This rare live performance, again demonstrates the band’s softer side, with Gillan’s vocals offering a raw emotional delivery. McBride’s guitar solos were subtle but powerful, adding a sense of longing to the track, while Airey’s keyboard work added an ethereal, haunting quality. The track’s reflective nature allowing the crowd to pause, absorbing every note in quiet reverence, this one gets massive cheers on its demise. A bit of trivia here, Blackmore never played the song live as he disliked the track. It did get played only the once during his tenure with the band, when he was ill and Randy California dep’d for him. When Joe Satriani replaced Blackmore in 1993, the song was added to the set. It was also on Gillan’s album Gillan’s Inn featuring blind guitarist Jeff Healey.
Next came another true gem of the night: “Portable Door”(from ‘= 1’ – 2024). Often overlooked in the DEEP PURPLE catalogue, this track brought the funk, with its bluesy undertones and infectious groove. Airey’s keyboards added a jazzy feel to the song, while McBride’s guitar work elevated it into something completely fresh. Paice’s drumming was laid-back yet precise, locking everything into place. It was a moment of musical brilliance, another master class showing DEEP PURPLE’s ability to create a new identity within their classic framework. The mood then took on an even darker turn with “Anya”(from ‘The Battle Rages On’ – 1993), a track full of atmospheric tension. Airey’s organ work, again, was spellbinding, and with McBride’s guitar lines meshed seamlessly with the keyboard, they together created a haunting soundscape. Paice’s steady drumming anchored the song’s deep, brooding atmosphere, while Gillan’s vocals were nothing short of captivating, adding layers of emotion to the track. The crowd was utterly transfixed by the performance, feeling the song’s complex textures.
The energy in the arena shifts once again as Airey, with his mastery over the keys, takes us on a journey through classic riffs and melodies. His solo is more than just a showcase of technical skill, it’s a tribute to the history of rock, filled with nods to iconic moments in the genre’s evolution. From ‘Iron Man’ to playful snippets of ‘Chopsticks’, it’s a fun, unexpected moment that lets the crowd breathe and get lost in the music. The cheers that erupt when Airey launches into this medley show the crowd’s appreciation, not just for his playing, but for the way he’s connected the band’s storied past with the present. This moment alone reminds everyone that the Deep Purple sound lies in the keyboard genius of what the late Jon Lord had laid down before him.
From the delicate keyboards, the band slams straight into “Bleeding Obvious” (from ‘= 1’ – 2024). This track hits hard, with McBride’s explosive guitar riffs propelling the song forward. The dynamics between the rhythm section, with Paice driving the pulse and Glover laying down a steady, unwavering foundation, are flawless. Airey’s keyboard flourishes bring an air of sophistication to the otherwise aggressive nature of the song, balancing the sharp edges with smooth, soaring melodies. Once again, Gillan’s voice is gritty and raw, perfectly matching the song’s tone of defiance. He delivers each lyric with utter conviction, and it feels as if the entire band is playing in a unified rage. This is deep, thoughtful hard rock at its finest, and the crowd is eating up every second of it. The way the song crescendos and builds to its peak is nothing short of exhilarating.
Then, they take us to the stratosphere with ‘Machine Head’s (1972) ultimate anthem, “Space Truckin’.” The lights explode into action, the colours as bold and vivid as the space exploration theme. The song’s groove is irresistible, with Paice and Glover in perfect sync, create a thunderous pulse that gets the crowd light in their loafers. McBride’s solo is a showstopper, a whirlwind of virtuosity that channels the spirit of ‘Deep Purple’s’ heyday while adding his own fiery energy to the mix. Gillan, at his absolute best, is in full command of the crowd, singing with all the grit and flair that made this track iconic. The energy is sky-high, and the song’s rapid shifts in rhythm and tempo are handled with perfect precision. The stage is alive with energy as “Space Truckin’” drives forward, and the audience is swept along in its electric current.
And then, that moment arrives. The one that everyone has been waiting for. The iconic, the immortal, “Smoke on the Water”, another from the mighty album, ‘Machine Head’ (1972). The lights shine on McBride who makes his way to the front, He stands their teasing the crowd to cheer louder, and when he gets it where he wants it, he hits that familiar riff, and the arena erupts. The crowd chants the riff before Gillan even opens his mouth, and the sheer force of the collective energy in the room is overwhelming, the venue is now roofless. It’s the song that has become synonymous with rock music itself, and tonight, it is everything.
McBride nails the opening solo, pouring everything he has into those first few notes, and the crowd responds with roars of approval. Gillan’s voice is gritty but clear, commanding yet intimate, as he leads the audience through every note, every phrase. The guitar soars, the drums thump, and the iconic riff echoes throughout the arena, filling every inch of space. There’s a liberation in the air, a sense of apogee that only “Smoke on the Water” can provide.
This isn’t just another song, it’s a cultural milestone. The audience knows it, and so does the band. Every member is invested in this song, not just as a classic but as a piece of rock history. When the song reaches its peak, with McBride’s blistering solo and the rhythm section working in perfect tandem, the energy is at an all-time high. The arena shakes, and for a brief, shining moment, it feels like rock itself is alive, pulsing with power.
And with that DEEP PURPLE, as one united force say good night and leave the stage. The applause goes to the next level as the baying fans want more, surely there has to be an encore, the house lights are still down. As the crowd’s applause echoes around the arena, Deep Purple returns for their encore. The atmosphere is electric, the anticipation hanging heavy in the air as the band takes their positions.
First up is “Old-Fangled Thing,” (from ‘= 1,’ – 2024), a song that again shows Deep Purple’s incredible versatility. The rhythm section grooves effortlessly, with Paice’s drumming and Glover’s bass creating an inescapable groove. McBride adds the perfect bite with his guitar work, and Airey’s keys fill the soundscape with rich textures. The song’s message of change and the passage of time resonates deeply, and it’s a fitting addition to the encore, capturing the essence of a band that has lived through decades of rock history yet still manages to push forward with fresh ideas.
Then comes the classic, “Hush” (from ‘Shades of Deep Purple’, – 1968). The crowd’s energy spikes as the opening chords hit, and Gillan’s playful vocal delivery sets the tone for this extended jam version. The crowd are all too eager to join in with the “Nah Nah’s”, as this plays out. The interaction between McBride and Airey is extraordinary, with the two musicians riffing off one another in a back-and-forth that’s both technical and intuitive. McBride’s guitar lines are crisp and biting, while Airey’s keyboard work injects a new, almost jazzy energy into the song. The band extends the song into a full-blown jam, each member taking their turn to shine.
The crowd is completely enraptured by the extended version, every note dripping with improvisation and soul. The back-and-forth between the guitar and keys is especially hypnotic, a further example of the chemistry between the musicians. There’s a certain magic to this performance, and you can feel the history of ‘Hush’ as it carefully unfolds in front of us.
Finally, Deep Purple closes the night with “Black Night” released as a single in 1970. This is a song that has become synonymous with the band’s live performances, and tonight is no exception. The energy is relentless as the opening riff rips through the arena. The tempo is fast, the riffs are thick, and McBride’s solo is electrifying, full of attitude and precision. The song is a crowd favourite, and the audience are loving it, those who have not already done so, are on their feet.
Gillan’s vocals are raw, full of fire, and the entire band locks in together with a synergy that’s truly something special. Paice’s drumming is ferocious, propelling the song forward with unstoppable force, while Glover and Airey add layers of musical complexity that only Deep Purple can achieve. As the song builds to its crescendo, you can feel the entire band pushing towards the finish line, playing with the same ferocity they had when they first recorded it over 50 years ago.
Sadly, the night ends on the dying notes of the thunderous, “Black Night,” a track that leaves the crowd in a totally, satiated state having been totally immersed in the band’s enduring power, and with a sense of exalted exhilaration that only Deep Purple can provide. This was a night to remember, a celebration of not just a legendary band but of a rock legacy. Deep Purple’s performance highlights once again, their unrivalled place in annuls of rock history. The setlist was a perfect blend of classic anthems with their more recent releases segued in, with each song taking on new life in the live setting. And as the final echoes of “Black Knight” fade, it is clear, Deep Purple are a band that will never, ever be forgotten. In a music world that has dramatically changed over the years, Long May They Reign Supreme.
