Paice, Ashton & Lord

Paice, Ashton & Lord (PAL) was a short-lived British rock band formed in 1977 by Deep Purple members Ian Paice (drums) and Jon Lord (keyboards), along with guitarist/vocalist Tony Ashton. Here are several facts about them:

1. Formation and Background: Paice, Ashton & Lord came together after the breakup of Deep Purple in 1976. Ian Paice (drums) and Jon Lord (keyboards), who had been with Deep Purple since its inception, were joined by Tony Ashton, a veteran musician known for his work with bands like Ashton, Gardner and Dyke and Family. The trio decided to form a new band, combining their diverse musical backgrounds and influences to create a unique sound.

2. Musical Style and Sound: Paice, Ashton & Lord's music was a blend of rock, blues, and funk, with elements of jazz and classical music thrown into the mix. The band's sound was characterized by its dynamic interplay between Paice's powerful drumming, Lord's virtuosic keyboard work, and Ashton's soulful vocals and guitar playing. Their songs often featured intricate arrangements and extended instrumental passages, showcasing the individual talents of each member while also highlighting their tight musical chemistry as a band.

3. Album Release: In 1977, Paice, Ashton & Lord released their only studio album, "Malice in Wonderland". Produced by Martin Birch, who had previously worked with Deep Purple, the album featured a mix of original compositions and cover songs, including the band's signature track, "Ghost Story". "Malice in Wonderland" received favorable reviews from critics and garnered attention for its adventurous musical approach and spirited performances.

4. Live Performances: Despite the critical acclaim for their album, Paice, Ashton & Lord struggled to find commercial success and disbanded shortly after its release. However, they did embark on a brief tour to promote "Malice in Wonderland", performing live shows in Europe and North America. Their live performances were well-received by audiences, with the band showcasing their exceptional musicianship and stage presence.

5. Legacy and Influence: While Paice, Ashton & Lord's time together was relatively brief, their musical legacy has endured among fans of classic rock. "Malice in Wonderland" remains a cult favorite among aficionados of 1970s rock music, appreciated for its adventurous spirit and top-notch musicianship. The band's members went on to pursue various other projects following the dissolution of Paice, Ashton & Lord, with Ian Paice and Jon Lord eventually reuniting in Deep Purple in the 1980s. Despite their limited output as a band, Paice, Ashton & Lord left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape, showcasing the talents of three exceptional musicians at the height of their powers.

In summary, Paice, Ashton & Lord was a British rock band formed by Deep Purple members Ian Paice and Jon Lord, along with guitarist/vocalist Tony Ashton. Their music blended rock, blues, funk, and other genres, resulting in a dynamic and adventurous sound. Although their time together was short-lived, Paice, Ashton & Lord's sole album, "Malice in Wonderland", remains a classic of 1970s rock mu