50 years ago today (6/29/73), Deep Purple’s “Mark II,” lineup comes to an end after a show in Osaka, Japan. This incarnation featured original members Ian Paice (drums), Jon Lord (keyboard) and Ritchie Blackmore (guitar), along with lead singer Ian Gillan and bassist Roger Glover. Gillian quit and Glover quit soon after and were replaced by David Coverdale and Glenn Hughes. Mark II era marks the most popular lineup of the band and featured albums Deep Purple In Rock, Fireball, Machine Head and Who Do We Think We Are. Mark II would regroup for 1984’s well-received Perfect Strangers album and 1987’s The House of Blue Light. Check out Deep Purple live in 1972 with Mark II at full throttle…
