Rainbow: English Castle Magic

[Voice of Reason]

Rainbow: English Castle Magic is yet another book in Martin Popoff's series of books which deal with legendary bands of days gone by. Perhaps, this book is the most legendary of all considering the lyrical subject matter of the first era of Rainbow. I highly recommend its purchase to anyone who enjoys any of the eras of Rainbow. Well worth the money!

Popoff begins the book with scant background information on the musicians who would form Rainbow and release Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow upon the world. Then the author proceeds to write one chapter about each and every Rainbow album ever released. You will read interesting facts about the personalities behind the scenes, the writing and recording processes, and the mishaps along the way.

As always, Ronnie James Dio comes across as a true artist and a genuine gentleman. His role in the first era of Rainbow is clearly illustrated, as if fans could not appreciate his contributions from listening alone. Still, it seems only just that a man who has given us so much good music over the years be properly honored for having done so.

Many of the peculiar behaviors associated with Ritchie Blackmore are chronicled in this book, as he is the central figure due to the fact that he was the only member belonging to every era of the band. Readers will come away with a different sense of who this enigmatic man really was and of what he was capable. If you are of my mindset, you will still appreciate all of the musical gifts Blackmore has given us through Rainbow, but you will find yourself thinking much less of the man on a human level.

I also have to add that Joe Lynn Turner comes across as the most colorful character in the band's history. You will be amused by many of the stories he relates because he embelishes with a certain flair. If loose lips sink ships, Joe Lynn Turner could bring down an air craft carrier.

As with the other Popoff books I have read, this one is riddled with typographical errors. The man needs to find a new editor. Aside from that I have only one true complaint, it seems Popoff had to pay verbal homage to the twin harpies who seem to dominate Ritchie's current life and musical career. I suppose the author had to do what he had to get this book published.

EDIT: Author's Homepage: http://www.martinpopoff.com/html/welcome.html
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[Dragon235]

he still has typing errors?! Jeez, firggin hire a better editor! Heck, hire me!!!!

thnaks for the info though It's on my list to buy now.
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