Behind The Album - Deep Purple "Burn".

🎸 Deep Purple – “Burn” (1974)

Release Date:

• February 15, 1974

• Label: Purple Records (UK), Warner Bros. (US)

“Burn” marked a bold new chapter for Deep Purple. It was the first album recorded by the Mark III lineup of the band, following the departure of iconic members Ian Gillan (vocals) and Roger Glover (bass).

The album introduced David Coverdale (vocals) and Glenn Hughes (bass/vocals), bringing a more bluesy, soulful, and funky feel to Deep Purple’s classic hard rock sound.

• David Coverdale was a young, unknown singer from Northern England when he joined.

• Glenn Hughes, previously of Trapeze, was recruited not only for his bass playing but also for his distinct vocal style, which complemented Coverdale’s deeper voice.

Recording Details:

• Recorded: November 1973

• Studio: Montreux, Switzerland, using the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio

• Producer: Deep Purple (self-produced)

• Engineer: Martin Birch (renowned for his later work with Iron Maiden, Rainbow, etc.)

Musical Style & Legacy:

• A shift from the heavy, aggressive hard rock of the Gillan era to a blues-based, soulful rock with funk influences.

• The title track “Burn” became a Deep Purple classic, showcasing fiery guitar work, dueling vocals, and Jon Lord’s blazing organ lines.

• Other highlights include:

  • "Mistreated" – a powerful blues ballad that later became a staple for Coverdale in Whitesnake.

  • "Sail Away" – a funky, groovy number written largely by Hughes and Blackmore.

  • "You Fool No One" – shows off the band’s rhythmic complexity and fusion elements.

Chart Performance:

• UK Albums Chart: #3

• US Billboard 200: #9

• Also charted strongly across Europe and Japan.

Track Listing:

1. Burn

2. Might Just Take Your Life

3. Lay Down, Stay Down

4. Sail Away

5. You Fool No One

6. What’s Goin’ On Here

7. Mistreated

8. “A