Ian Gillan

As a solo artist, Ian Gillan had his share of fine moments in the studio, but it was on-stage where he was at his best -- a fact underscored by Live at the Budokan. First released as a two-LP set in 1982 and reissued on a single CD in the early '90s, Budokan boasts strong extended versions of Purple classics like "Smoke on the Water," "Woman from Tokyo," and the moody ballad "Child in Time," as well as some songs he'd recorded for his solo projects, including "Clear Air Turbulence," "Money Lender," and "Over the Hill." If you acquire only one of Gillan's post-Purple recordings, this would be the best choice. [The 2007 Edsel edition includes liner notes written by Gillan himself.] ~ Alex Henderson, All Music Guide