Sunday, December 28, 2025

Deep Purple Reviews by Joe Viglione

 




Hush Review by Joe Viglione

Deep Purple's phenomenal version of "Hush", written by country/pop songwriter Joe South, took the Vanilla Fudge style of slowing a song down and bluesing it up another step, venturing into the domain of psychedelic heavy metal. Covered by Kula Shaker in the 1997 film I Know What You Did Last Summer other versions were recorded by Billy Joe Royal, Gotthard , former Ritchie Blackmore lead vocalist Joe Lynn Turner on his 1997 Under Cover album of song interpretations and even John Mellencamp. But once the tune received this rendition's indellible stamp no one could touch it again, not even the songwriter. South's

lyrics are highly suggestive, beyond Van Morrison's "Gloria", straight into Louie, Louie" territory with: "She's got a loving like quicksand... It blew my mind and I'm in so deep/That I can't eat, y'all, and I can't sleep." Or as Aimee Mann sang, hush hush because voices carried this one right by the censors with Jon Lord's quagmire of thick chaotic keyboard sound meshed with Ritchie Blackmore's guitar. Tetragrammaton Records single #1503 went Top 5 in August of 1968, 4:11 as originally released on the Shades Of Deep Purple album, 4:26 on Rhino's 2000 reissue The Very Best Of Deep Purple. Imagine a fuzz box on the organ in a church cathedral to get the intensity of the opening chords, a sound stolen less than two years later by Detroit's Frijid Pink with their rendition of "House Of The Rising Sun". Frijid Pink, however, couldn't get the intense rhythmic nuances of original bassist Nic Simper and drummer Ian Paice, not to mention Rod Evans haunting vocal. "Smoke On The Water" equaled this song's chart position five years later, and might have made a bigger impact, but there's no denying that Deep Purple in its original progressive pop form was a far more dynamic and literate band. "Hush" remains their most cosmic moment, a truly unique blend of converging 60's styles preferable to connoisseurs of stuff that found itself on the Nuggets compilation lp. This track was conspicuous in its absence.  


https://www.allmusic.com/album/the-book-of-taliesyn-mw0000195135#review



The Book of Taliesyn Review by Joe Viglione

Several months after the innovative remake of "You Keep Me Hanging On," England's answer to Vanilla Fudge was this early version of Deep Purple, which featured vocalist Rod Evans, and bassist Nick Simper, along with mainstays Ritchie BlackmoreJon Lord, and Ian Paice. This, their second album, followed on the heels of "Hush," a dynamic arrangement of a Joe South tune, far removed from the flavor of one of his own hits, "Walk a Mile in My Shoes." Four months later, this album's cover of Neil Diamond's Top 25, 1967 gem "Kentucky Woman," went Top 40 for Deep Purple. Also like Vanilla Fudge, the group's own originals were creative, thought-provoking, but not nearly as interesting as their take on cover tunes. Vanilla Fudge did "Eleanor Rigby," and Deep Purple respond by going inside "We Can Work It Out" -- it falls out of nowhere after the progressive rock jam "Exposition," Ritchie Blackmore's leads zipping in between Rod Evans smooth and precise vocals. As Vanilla Fudge was progressively leaning more towards psychedelia, here Deep Purple are the opposite. The boys claim to be inspired by the Bard of King Arthur's court in Camelot, Taliesyn. John Vernon Lord, under the art direction of Les Weisbrich, paints a superb wonderland on the album jacket, equal to the madness of Hieronymous Bosch's cover painting used for the third album. Originals "The Shield" and "Anthem" make early Syd Barrett Pink Floyd appear punk in comparison. Novel sounds are aided by Lord's dominating keyboards, a signature of this group.

Though "The Anthem" is more intriguing than the heavy metal thunder of Machine Head, it is overwhelmed by the majesty of their "River Deep, Mountain High" cover, definitely not the inspiration for the Supremes and Four Tops 1971 hit version. By the time 1972 came around, Deep Purple immersed themselves in dumb lyrics, unforgettable riffs, and a huge presence, much like Black Sabbath. The evolution from progressive to hard rock was complete, but a combination of what they did here -- words that mattered matched by innovative musical passages -- would have been a more pleasing combination. Vanilla Fudge would cut Donovan's "Season of the Witch," Deep Purple followed this album by covering his "Lalena"; both bands abandoned the rewrites their fans found so fascinating. Rod Evans' voice was subtle enough to take "River Deep, Mountain High" to places Ian Gillam might have demolished.  




 

Taliesin | Naming the Fishes
Taliesin is a Welsh name meaning "shining brow" or "radiant forehead," named for a legendary 6th-century Welsh bard known for wisdom and poetry, a figure in Arthurian myth, and famously used by architect Frank Lloyd Wright for his home and studio, symbolizing a structure "of the hill". The name connects to ancient Celtic heritage, representing brilliance and inspiration.  
Key Meanings & Associations:
  • Literal Meaning: 
    From Welsh tal (brow/forehead) and iesin (radiant/shining). 
  • The legendary bard Taliesin, a wise poet of Sub-Roman Britain, a master of transformation, and Chief of Bards (Taliesin Ben Beirdd). 
  • Frank Lloyd Wright: 
    The name of his home in Wisconsin, built on a hill, reflecting his Welsh roots and the "brow" of the landscape. 
  • Symbolism: 
    Represents wisdom, creativity, inspiration, and a connection to ancient Celtic culture and imagination. 
Cultural Significance:
  • The name evokes a connection to Welsh heritage, epic poetry, and legendary figures like King Arthur. 

  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shades_of_Deep_Purple
  •  Viglione, Joe. "Deep Purple Hush review". Allmusic. Rovi Corporation. Retrieved 28 December 2013.
  • Deep Purple: Rod Evans (vocals); Ritchie Blackmore (guitar); Jon Lord (keyboards); Nicky Simper (bass); Ian Paice (drums). Several months after the innovative remake of "You Keep Me Hanging On," England's answer to Vanilla Fudge was this early version of Deep Purple, which featured vocalist Rod Evans, and bassist Nick Simper, along with mainstays Ritchie Blackmore, Jon Lord, and Ian Paice. This, their second album, followed on the heels of "Hush," a dynamic arrangement of a Joe South tune, far removed from the flavor of one of his own hits, "Walk a Mile in My Shoes." Four months later, this album's cover of Neil Diamond's Top 25, 1967 gem "Kentucky Woman," went Top 40 for Deep Purple. Also like Vanilla Fudge, the group's own originals were creative, thought-provoking, but not nearly as interesting as their take on cover tunes. Vanilla Fudge did "Eleanor Rigby," and Deep Purple respond by going inside "We Can Work It Out" -- it falls out of nowhere after the progressive rock jam "Exposition," Ritchie Blackmore's leads zipping in between Rod Evans smooth and precise vocals. As Vanilla Fudge was progressively leaning more towards psychedelia, here Deep Purple are the opposite. The boys claim to be inspired by the Bard of King Arthur's court in Camelot, Taliesyn. John Vernon Lord, under the art direction of Les Weisbrich, paints a superb wonderland on the album jacket, equal to the madness of Hieronymous Bosch's cover painting used for the third album. Originals "The Shield" and "Anthem" make early Syd Barrett Pink Floyd appear punk in comparison. Novel sounds are aided by Lord's dominating keyboards, a signature of this group. Though "The Anthem" is more intriguing than the heavy metal thunder of Machine Head, it is overwhelmed by the majesty of their "River Deep, Mountain High" cover, definitely not the inspiration for the Supremes and Four Tops 1971 hit version. By the time 1972 came around, Deep Purple immersed themselves in dumb lyrics, unforgettable riffs, and a huge presence, much like Black Sabbath. The evolution from progressive to hard rock was complete, but a combination of what they did here -- words that mattered matched by innovative musical passages -- would have been a more pleasing combination. Vanilla Fudge would cut Donovan's "Season of the Witch," Deep Purple followed this album by covering his "Lalena"; both bands abandoned the rewrites their fans found so fascinating. Rod Evans' voice was subtle enough to take "River Deep, Mountain High" to places Ian Gillam might have demolished. ~ Joe Viglione


  • https://fsgprints.com/products/deep-purple-book-of-taliesyn-white-vinyl-m?srsltid=AfmBOop1ps6jPAST88z-NaIsFGrgo4AedusoOAdxTxPZRmlELTg1t7cc

Monday, December 8, 2025

December 6 and 7 2025 Galaxy 7 on the airwaves of Boston Featuring drummer Kevin Graves ex of Blue Cheer.

 For Immediate Release 


Almost 49 years ago, in 1977, a cosmic journey
was recorded in Arlington, MA by engineer Bob Benjamin
 
December 6 and 7 2025 Galaxy 7 on the airwaves of Boston
Featuring drummer Kevin Graves ex of Blue Cheer.
Blue Cheer's "I'm The Light" played on Newton's WNTN
inspired Galaxy 7, so we had to have their drummer!

And bassist Greg Tarbox kept jamming on "Beginnings" by the
band Chicago (Only the Beginning) on the bass to try to upset
me.  It didn't work, it only added to the magic.

Thanks to the kindness of the staff at WBCA Boston,
Brett Rodrigues and crew, with the new masters of the
original recording transferred by the Thin Brown Line in
California, Galaxy 7 is on the airwaves again, almost
half a century later.  3 Spinitron attached to show when
song was aired.

3 mixes of Galaxy 7 are on Spotify / YouTube etc
A Science Fiction space epic I am still proud of today.

You can hear one below.

Galaxy Seven
Bass Guitar – Greg Tarbox
Drums – Kevin Graves (4)
Mouth Organ [Vox Organ] – Melody Tarbox
Other [Backing Vocals & Wobblers, The Choir!] – Chas & The Chippunks
Slide Guitar, Guitar ["FX" Guitar] – Gene Mitchum
Vocals, Guitar [T.F. Guitar], Slide Guitar, Rhythm Guitar – Count Viglione
https://www.discogs.com/release/2510766-Count-Viglione-Auguste-Phenomenon

 




Galaxy Seven (Special Version Instrumental Space Mix) Count Viglione 
(Special Version from the original master tapes) Count Viglione 
@audiam @sesac American Society of Composers, Authors & Publishers (ASCAP)
 #Ascap #soundexchange #musicLicensingCommission #libraryofcongress 
WBCA-LP 102.9 FM Boston Local Mix: Punk, Metal & Experimental





 
Varulven Ventures LLC
Joe Viglione
867 Boylston St
Suite 500
Boston, MA 02116  

Monday, February 17, 2025

Joe Vig Top 40 Low Sparks Scribblings to be posted on JoeVigtop40.com

 



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3mucvKIC88

For Immediate Release

Honey B Announces Uplifting New Roots Reggae Single "Happy For You" – A Celebration

of Collective Success

Los Angeles,CA– January 17, 2025 – Fresh beginnings, new opportunities, and the pursuit of

self-improvement are on everyone’s mind this time of year. In this spirit of growth, reggae artist

Honey B is releasing her new roots reggae single, "Happy For You," a track that encourages

listeners to celebrate the success of others as a means to unlock their own happiness and personal

expansion.

Produced by Issachar Muzik and featuring the legendary Roots Radics founding members –

Flabba Holt, Dwight Pinkney, Lincoln “Style” Scott, Eric “Bingy Bunny” Lamont, and Richard

“Tee Bird” Johnson, ”Happy For You" blends a traditional reggae sound with modern themes.

The song is a call for unity, and a refreshing reminder that by celebrating others’ achievements,

we create space for our own success to flourish.

With social media's pervasive influence, it’s easy to find ourselves comparing our lives to the

curated successes of others. In a world where jealousy and scorekeeping have taken a toll,

"Happy For You" challenges the norms and promotes a culture of unity. It’s a call to move

beyond the zero-sum mentality and recognize that supporting others does not take away from our

own journey. In fact, it fuels our progress. The song echoes the powerful sentiment, “If you want

to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” reinforcing the idea that patience and

mutual support create a foundation for success that benefits everyone.

The track also draws on the timeless Jamaican proverb, “Today for you, tomorrow for me,” a

reminder that everyone’s time to shine will come. “I want people to feel empowered by each

other’s successes, not threatened by them,” Honey B says of the new track. The message in the

music is bound to connect with both older fans who value the genre’s deeper messages, as well

as younger listeners who might be seeking music that speaks to their personal experiences and

current struggles. “We’re in this together,” Honey B insists,”and when we root for each other, we

amplify that collective spirit.”

Currently based in the U.S. with over a decade spent living in the West Indies, Honey B’s sound

is versatile, resonating with reggae fans who value tradition, while also appealing to newer

listeners who appreciate fresh yet grounded voices in the genre. Known for her lyrical substance

and natural delivery, Honey B’s music inspires and unites audiences worldwide. Her Jamaican

fans affectionately call her 'the Raggamuffin,' a testament to her authentic, entertaining sound.

With influences ranging from the iconic Bunny Wailer, whose sweet melodies and creative

diction have always inspired her, to Super Cat, Brigadier Jerry, and Sister Carol for their

clever phrasing, and Tanya Stephens’ captivating storytelling technique, Honey B gives credit,

respect and gratitude to some of Jamaica’s musical pioneers.

By blending modern-day challenges with classic reggae themes, “Happy For You” is not only

thought-provoking, but deeply relatable, and it invites people to reflect on their own actions,

moods, and how they can contribute to a collective sense of triumph. This approach motivates
people not only to listen to the music but to actively engage with its message.
The next time you’re surrounded by other people’s success, let it spark inspiration, not
discouragement. It’s a sign that the energy of possibility and triumph is in the air, and we’re all
part of the celebration.
“Happy For You” is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Honey B and Issachar
Muzik. In addition to the single, Honey B is gearing up to release a music video that will visually
capture the song’s positive message. With a full social media campaign to amplify the song’s
reach, Honey B is also planning live performances and future collaborations with Issachar Muzik
that promise to take her sound even further.
For press inquiries, an electronic press kit (EPK), and more information about Honey B,
please contact:
contact@therealhoneyb.com
Pre-Save “Happy For You" now: https://tr.ee/z7xyI0lTKO
Follow Honey B on social media for updates and more:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linkmehoneyb
Website: http://therealhoneyb.com/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/linkmehoneyb
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HoneyBreggae/
YouTube:linkmehoneyb



Low Sparks

1.
Lucky Girl 04:05
2.
Stone Cold 03:25
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
New Year's Day 03:16      

Kevin Condon, 
Jose Downes, 
Ohan Heghinian, 
Philippa Lehar Sakos, 
Jason Sakos, 
Mike Scotti

Lucky Girl EP
Short review by Joe Viglione 
 
Released on  November 15, 2014
the Lucky Girl EP bv Low Sparks is smart pop with bursts of melodic energy that delights. "I Just Want You Back" is five minutes and six seconds of a wonderful musical excursion, kinda 
like a sequel to the Rolling Stones' "Wild Horses."   A slow groove with pensive vocals and music
that would make Gram Parsons proud. "No Getting Over You" is reminiscent of Emmit Rhodes,   
"I Just Want You Back" is five minutes and six seconds of a wonderful musical excursion, kinda 
like a sequel to the Rolling Stones' "Wild Horses."   A slow groove with pensive vocals and music
that would make Gram Parsons proud. "No Getting Over You" is reminiscent of Emmit Rhodes,  while 
New Year's Day and its chorus of "just let go" would be welcome on any post-Lou Reed Velvet
Underground album from Doug Yule.  Thanks to Bandcamp where I found this. https://lowsparks.bandcamp.com/track/new-years-day
           
Sunday March 9, 2025 Tavern at the End of the World 
Nice place to hang out on a late Sunday afternoon. 
No cover. Great food and reasonable drinks. On street parking all over the main avenue.
5pm - 6pm Hummingbird Syndicate
6:20pm - 7:30pm Low Sparks


Deep Purple Reviews by Joe Viglione

  Hush Review by Joe Viglione Deep Purple's phenomenal version of "Hush", written by country/pop songwriter Joe South, took th...