DEEP PURPLE come taste the band P-10066W

Deep Purple’s Funk-Rock Swan Song: ‘Come Taste The Band’ (P-10066W)

Today’s entry highlights a divisive yet increasingly appreciated masterpiece from the Deep Purple canon. We are examining the 1975 Japanese White Label Promo pressing of Come Taste The Band, released on Warner Bros. Records with the catalog number P-10066W.

The Mark IV Era

Released in 1975, this album documents the brief but brilliant existence of the “Mark IV” lineup. With founding guitarist Ritchie Blackmore departed, the band recruited the young American virtuoso Tommy Bolin. Under the guidance of vocalist David Coverdale and bassist/vocalist Glenn Hughes, the band drastically shifted their sound, infusing their heavy rock foundation with heavy doses of funk and soul. Tracks like “Gettin’ Tighter” showcase Hughes’s vocal prowess and Bolin’s rhythmic agility, while the haunting closer “You Keep On Moving” remains one of the most atmospheric tracks in the band’s history. Produced by the band and Martin Birch, it stands as a unique, groove-laden chapter in the Purple saga.

Exclusive White Label Promo

This specific copy is a highly collectible Promo Sample, distinguished by its pristine White Labels on the disc, a feature reserved for copies distributed to radio stations and industry critics. The front cover also bears a “Sample” sticker, further verifying its status as a non-retail promotional copy. Manufactured by Warner-Pioneer Corporation, the audio quality is superb, capturing the dynamic range of the funk-infused instrumentation.

Collector’s Details: Obi with Replenishment Slip

The packaging is a true delight for serious collectors. It features a sturdy gatefold sleeve and comes complete with a 4-page insert containing photos, liner notes, and lyrics. Most notably, the original Obi strip is intact and retains the rare “Hoju-hyo” (Replenishment Slip) tag. Finding an obi with this slip still attached is difficult, as record stores typically removed them for inventory tracking upon sale. The price is listed as ¥2,500, marking this as a premium release of its time.