The Battle Rages on

Eirik Solum (February 10, 2005)

This is the legendary mkII's second comeback. But it was not close to the acheivements of the 1984 version of the band. The Battle Rages on was initially recorded with another singer on board - Joe Lynn Turner - who replaced Ian Gillan in 89, and did the Slaves and Masters album. Turner got fired half way through the TBRO sessions, when the record company said 'Gillan back or no release'. Blackmore unwillingly had to accept the record companys wishes - and the rest of the band as well - and Gillan was called up.

With the backing tracks already composed and recorded Gillan had a difficult job digging up vocal melodies and ideas to follow. He did a good job on that, but the big picture sufferes from the situation. Blackmore was unhappiy bringing Gillan back (and left after the European leg to the follow up tour) and the album lacks the needed five way chemistry.

Some bright moments are Solitaire and Anya.