Gillan (1978–1982) CD Box Set Review: A Must-Hear Chapter of the Deep Purple Family
I unbox and review the brand-new 7-CD box set celebrating Ian Gillan’s solo band era from 1978 to 1982! This is classic Ian Gillan – ‘The Japanese Album,’ ‘Mr. Universe,’ ‘Glory Road,’ ‘Future Shock,’ ‘Double Trouble, and ‘Magic,’
Whether you’re a Deep Purple completist or just love raw, energetic rock music, this set is a fantastic snapshot of Gillan’s unique blend of Hard rock and metal.
By Phil Aston, Now Spinning Magazine
if you’re missing some of these classic albums in your collection, this could be the perfect way to fill that gap. Read on to discover what makes this set so special.
What’s Inside the Box?
Seven CDs covering Ian Gillan’s prolific post–Deep Purple phase
The Japanese Album (1978)
Mr. Universe (1979)
Glory Road (1980)
Future Shock (1981)
Double Trouble (1981) (studio + live)
Magic (1982)
Slipcase Packaging designed roughly in an 7″ single format
Booklet featuring new interview content, band photos, single sleeves, and archival press clippings
Note: The track listings include all the B Sides and non album tracks—making it a one-stop shop for Gillan completists or anyone curious about this era.
A Quick Tour of the Albums
The Japanese Album (1978)
The crucial bridge between the Ian Gillan Band and the heavier Gillan approach.
Tracks like “Fighting Man” and “Back in the Game” showed a newfound directness—paving the way for the British heavy metal scene.
Mr. Universe (1979)
The official breakout, featuring “Vengeance,” “She Tears Me Down,” and the epic title track.
A raucous energy defined by guitarist Bernie Tormé’s chaotic solos and Colin Towns’ dramatic keyboards.
Glory Road (1980)
Leans more melodic but still packs plenty of grit.
Songs like “Unchain Your Brain” and “On the Rocks” highlight Gillan’s vocal power and the band’s knack for big, anthemic hooks.
Future Shock (1981)
Demonstrates a heavier, more polished production with standouts like “Bite the Bullet” and “If I Sing Softly.”
Highly collectible originally (complete with a sci-fi themed booklet).
Double Trouble (1981)
A half-studio, half-live hybrid that captures both worlds.
“Born to Kill” and “Sunbeam” shine in the studio set, while the live disc proves Gillan’s fiery onstage chemistry.
Magic (1982)
Often overlooked, but it’s full of hidden gems like “Demon Driver.”
Features a spirited cover of Stevie Wonder’s “Living for the City.”
How Does It Compare to Previous Releases?
If you’re new to Gillan’s back catalog or never managed to pick up these albums in their earlier forms—particularly the elusive Japanese Album—this box set is a godsend. However, if you already own the 2007 Edsel reissues (or the vinyl box set from a few years back), you won’t find much in the way of brand-new material. The real draw here is having all the original albums + bonus cuts neatly compiled in one cohesive package.
Ideal For: Anyone missing these albums on CD, or who only has a smattering of Gillan’s solo work.
Sound & Package: Solid remasters, a tidy slipcase, plus a decent booklet interview with Ian Gillan.
Value: Seven discs for around £35 is a substantial bang for your buck.
With raw, punk-tinged heavy metal that set the pace for the NWOBHM era, Gillan’s band was unique among ex-Deep Purple spinoffs. This set cements their significance in rock history and ensures you don’t have to piece it all together from random reissues or secondhand singles.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
