Deep Purple – In Rock represents the monumental birth of heavy metal as we know it, captured in this superb Japanese reissue that preserves the album's explosive energy and pioneering sound in exceptional quality. Originally released in 1970, this 1971 Japanese pressing captures the Mark II lineup's groundbreaking fusion of classical influence and raw rock power in a gatefold presentation that does justice to its historic significance. The Japanese pressing reveals the album's revolutionary production with breathtaking force. From the iconic opening riff of "Speed King" to the epic grandeur of "Child in Time," every power chord and organ flourish emerges with stunning definition. Ian Gillan's soaring vocals and Roger Glover's thunderous basslines combine with Ritchie Blackmore's virtuoso guitar and Jon Lord's classical-inspired keyboards in a sonic assault that benefits from the superior Japanese audio engineering. The album's perfect balance of hard rock aggression and musical sophistication sounds more immediate and powerful than ever in this pristine pressing. This copy is exceptional for its near-mint condition throughout. The gatefold cover remains crisp and vibrant, the OBI strip is perfectly preserved, and the vinyl surface plays with the crystal-clear, dynamic sound that Japanese hard rock pressings are celebrated for. The iconic cover artwork—featuring the band members carved into Mount Rushmore—looks particularly striking in this Japanese gatefold edition, perfectly capturing the album's monumental ambition and rock immortality. The foundation of heavy metal, preserved in collector's dream condition. DETAILED TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION Artist / Title: Deep Purple - In Rock Format / Pressing: Vinyl LP - Japanese Reissue, Gatefold Label & Catalog Number: Warner Bros. Records P-8020W Year / Country: 1971 - Japan Sleeve/Cover Condition: Near Mint - Minimal handling evidence, strong gatefold seams Media Condition: Near Mint - Visually pristine, no visible defects, plays with perfect clarity Contents: Complete with original OBI strip TRACKLIST Side One: 1. Speed King 2. Bloodsucker 3. Child in Time Side Two: 1. Flight of the Rat 2. Into the Fire 3. Living Wreck 4. Hard Lovin' Man COLLECTOR'S HIGHLIGHTS Rarity: Japanese reissue in exceptional near-mint condition Special Features: Gatefold edition with original OBI strip Musical Content: Landmark heavy rock album featuring the classic Mark II lineup Authenticity: Confirmed by Warner Bros. catalog number P-8020W SALE TERMS & SHIPPING Shipping: Within 1 or 2 business days after payment Packaging: Professional, secure vinyl mailer | Record shipped outside the cover to prevent seam splits Vinyl Care: All our vinyl records are professionally cleaned with an ultrasonic machine before shipping. We also include a free outer sleeve and new inner sleeve. Shipping Areas: Worldwide Payment: Required within 3 days after auction closes ABOUT THE SELLER A passionate collector for over 30 years, my journey through music has been a lifelong adventure. With the creation of STREAMZER, I've chosen to share this profound love for music and records with enthusiasts around the world. Each record from my collection has been carefully selected, stored in optimal conditions, and handled with the respect that these musical treasures deserve. I'm delighted to offer these pieces to fellow music lovers who understand their true value. Happy bidding! Musically, Olivier