album · October 1, 1968
The Book of Taliesyn
Parlophone UKSee this day
psychedelic rockhard rockclassic rock
Deep Purple's second album, released mere months after their debut, featured a more focused and ambitious approach to hard rock. The album captures the band in a transitional phase, exploring heavier sounds and complex arrangements.
- The album was recorded in just a few weeks in Los Angeles. It reached number 50 on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States. The track "Listen, Learn, Ride On" features a rare writing credit for all five band members.
- The album cover art features a photo of the band with extended hair, a visual representation of their evolving psychedelic and hard rock sound. It was released on Tetragrammaton Records in the US and Parlophone in the UK. The band undertook a tour of the US in late 1968 to support the album.
- Producer Derek Lawrence also worked with the band on their debut album, 'Shades of Deep Purple'. The album was released in October 1968 in the US and December 1968 in the UK. It showcases early examples of Ritchie Blackmore's guitar prowess and Jon Lord's organ work.
Deep Purple formed in London in 1968, initially as Roundabout, before settling on their final name. They are one of the pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal.
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