'Bent Out of Shape' was to be the last studio album in the first chapter of 'Rainbow', as 'Ritchie Blackmore' rejoined 'Deep Purple' for their big comeback. As with the previous few releases, this is a lot more commercial sounding than the classic early period, but that said, this is overall more consistent and harder rocking than both 'Difficult to Cure' and 'Straight Between the Eyes' and in my opinion the best studio release since 'Long Live Rock & Roll'.

First up is the mid tempo rocker 'Stranded', which owes more than a nod to 'Uriah Heep', overlooking the chorus that while repetitive is still pretty punchy, it's a solid opener with 'Turner' working the lyrics particularly well. The pace softens for the ballad 'Can't Let You Go' which comes complete with an organ recital style introduction that makes for a nice touch, the rest of the song is passionately executed and sung, ultimately your stereotypical Power Ballad, but a decent one at that. The tempo is restored with the lively yet melodic rocker 'Fool for the Night' and overlooking the tame intro a decent cut graced with a fine 'Blackmore' solo and rhythm work that's steadfast and driving. Brisker still is the 80's 'Deep Purple' style 'Fire Dance', in fact this wouldn't look out of place on 'Perfect Strangers' and this quality energetic rocker, sports fine guitar work and a top solo for my album highlight. The first instrumental takes the shape of 'Anybody There' and I'm can't really get excited by this down-hearted number, pretty bland but thankfully short. In stark contrast is the uplifting Pop Metal of 'Desperate Heart', which features a pretty impressive 'Blackmore' solo, 'Turner's' usual sharp vocals and strong keyboard work from 'David Rosenthal'. The first single release from this album was to be 'Streets of Dreams', a relatively predictable 80's chart friendly release, I've never been a fan of the songs 'Rainbow' chose for singles releases and this continues the uninspiring run, despite a passionate vocal display from 'Joe Lynn Turner'. The pace is lifted with the bluesy rocker 'Drinking with the Devil' which rides along some quality rhythm and riff work, the fret work is also pretty sweet for another splendid track. OH NO what's this? the album was going so well up to this point, an instrumental version of 'Snowman' this is dull, insipid and doesn't fit in with the rest of the album- this is what skip buttons were made for! The album goes out on a high with the hard rocking 'Make your Move', which is braced by an energetic 'Whitesnake' vibe and further enhanced by some choice guitaring.

I've never been a fan of post 'Dio' 'Rainbow' but I must admit this is a pretty decent release and a marked improvement over the last three, in fact take out the awful instrumental 'Snowman' and I would have rated this even higher.