Third album in as many years for 'Gillan', as 'Ian' and his motley band continue in the same impressive vein as the debut 'Mr. Universe' and 'Glory Road'. On the whole 'Future Shock' has a slightly more experimental feel than previous releases but features no shortage of variety, as they go from early Metal through to Bluesy rock and even comic theatrical, that said the material is still well within the classic 'Gillan' mould.

First up is the hard rocking title track, a lively pulsating number that highlights 'Ian Gillan's' sharp vocals and is subsequently braced by a fitting instrumental break typically unpredictable in approach. Following strongly is the Bluesy plodder 'Nightride out of Phoenix', lyrically solid, featuring characteristic 'Colin Towns' keyboard work and nice guitaring from 'Bertie Tormé'. The pace is lifted with the brisk rocker '(The Ballad) of Lucitania Express', vibrant rhythm work compliments of 'Mick Underwood' and 'John McCoy' is the order of the day, on this quirky but appealing track. Better still is 'No Laughing in Heaven', normally I'm not a fan of comically penned songs, but this is the exception, lyrically superb, brilliantly sung, and magnificently executed- Top track. Less impressive is 'Sacre Bleu' which tries to take on a similar approach to the previous song, regrettably this doesn't come off, 'Gillan's' French accent isn't really needed and while the brisk funky rhythm isn't poor, not really an album highlight. Improvements are made with a cover of 'New Orleans', vocally 'Ian Gillan' steals the show with a flawless performance, that said he's well supported especially by 'Bertie Tormé' who displays choice fret work. Side two (I've got this on vinyl, well work it for the album art in the 16 page booklet) opens with 'Bite the Bullet', a fairly generic rocker, lyrically not up to their usual standard, particularly with the trite chorus, that said the melody and instrumental break are pleasant. The tempo falls for the ethereal ballad 'If I Sing Softly', 'Gillan' turns in another impeccable performance, while the harmonious melody is extremely impressive. Not quite as strong is the slightly laboured and longwinded 'Don't want the Truth', instrumentally there's some nice touches but lyrically it's pretty dull. Improvements are made with the beautifully executed ballad come rocker 'For your Dreams', well penned, sweetly sung, braced by another refined melody and shrewdly placed ethereal sound effects.

Definitely one of 'Gillan's' best album, a couple of tracks don't quite come off, but there's still a wealth of fine material that should grace any fans collection.