Blackmore is probably the single most accomplished player in rock and roll. His technique and proficiency are trademarks, but what has made him so successful is a complete understanding and mastery of the blues, and its place in rock music.
Sure, he can burn off a lick that makes your head spin, but what makes him so powerful is his sense of exactly what notes 'work' and in what places. His classical training tempered by his good blues sense make him a true guitar great.
He has always been known as the lead player in Deep Purple, although he has had his own band, Raindow, for over a decade. He first dabbled with stardom in the late 60s with the first Purple incarnation, but gained universal recognition with the album 'Deep Purple In Rock'. From this point onward, he continued to astound 'guitar-philes'. I recall buying each new Purple release and immediately proceeding to Side 1, Track 1, knowing that Blackmore would deliver the inevitable ripping solo to kick off the album.
Also known as somewhat tempermental (an understatement), some of his work has been erratic. A perfect example is the 1974 album 'Burn' in which his performance is awesome, and then only a few months later, on 'Stormbringer', his playing seems flat and indifferent. Personally, I have to take him to task for this behaviour because he has the talent to avoid it. It's not as if he's a 'one trick pony'. Other lesser players may run out of ideas, but not Blackmore. To my knowledge, he's never had a drug problem (as many of his time have), so when he puts in a sub-par showing, it's a big disappointment to his fans.
Anyway, enough of that. When he's on the mark, there's literally no-one better. His dexterity and command is a delight, and he has left a legacy of lead break masterpieces that will continue to inspire for years to come.
