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UK reviews 2002 (rescheduled)
 

Goodbye

An emotional night indeed, it was the last time I'll ever see Deep Purple live, unless we get the proposed special involving all previous band members. I was always sceptical when Ritchie left but was persuaded to see the Concerto, a fantastic night out, and this time because I wanted to see Jon play once more.

I have to say that when they kicked off the first few numbers without Jon I thought it was soulless. Lazy in particular was was poor, in my humble opinion of course. That song was always all about the interplay between Jon and Ritchie and neither of them were there weaving that special magic.

When Jon came on it just raised the whole event, the spirit of Purple was there again. Jon dueling with Steve was a stark reminder of what we will miss in the future. I was surprised that they played Black Night without Jon, but Hush and Highway Star were fantastic. Sorry Don, nothing personal.

I've said goodbye to Purple now, I think that's it from my perspective, the soul has been taken out of it. Thanks for the great music over many years, I wish them all great success in whatever they do in the future.

Arthur Smith

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