Leading his own bands in the late '70s and early '80s,
Ian Gillan continued to embrace music that, not surprisingly, was heavily influenced by his former band,
Deep Purple. And he never sounded more
Purple-ish than he does on
Mr. Universe, which isn't quite on a par with
Purple's
Burn but is stronger than many of the albums the outfit had recorded after
Gillan's departure (some of which were quite disappointing). This is
Gillan at his most aggressive and passionately rockin'. Those with fond memories of his work with
Purple will appreciate the testosterone-driven energy of "Vengeance," "Roller," and "Message in a Bottle." Headbangers shouldn't overlook this one.