What makes What I Did On My Vacation by Ian Gillan notable?

The album is notable for its critical reception, with particular praise for Gillan's vocal performances and songwriting. It charted modestly in the UK, contributing to Gillan's reputation as a solo artist outside of Deep Purple. The song 'No Laughing in Heaven' received airplay and remains one of his more recognized tracks. Released in 1986, What I Did On My Vacation was Ian Gillan's first solo album after his departure from Deep Purple. At this point in his career, he was exploring a more personal sound, distancing himself from the heavy metal roots that defined his previous work. This album marked a significant shift as it allowed him to showcase his versatility and embrace different musical influences.

Who is What I Did On My Vacation for?

What I Did On My Vacation works well if you're into dynamic storytelling with peaks, wave-like pacing for engagement and immersive journey through themes.

How many songs are on What I Did On My Vacation?

What I Did On My Vacation has 15 tracks, running approximately 69 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

What I Did On My Vacation

Ian Gillan · 1986

69 min · 15 tracks · hard rock

A gritty fusion of blues rock and hard rock that showcases Gillan's powerful vocals and sharp lyrical wit.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Scarabus — Opening with a potent blend of hard rock elements and storytelling, this track sets the tone for the album while showcasing Gillan's dynamic range.
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No Laughing in Heaven — This song stands out due to its catchy chorus and reflective lyrics, capturing Gillan's ability to blend humor with serious themes.
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Money Lender — Featuring a driving rhythm and sharp lyrical commentary on greed, this track exemplifies Gillan's knack for social critique within an engaging rock framework.
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If You Believe Me — With its emotional depth and compelling melody, this ballad highlights Gillan’s softer vocal nuances, contrasting with the harder edge present in other tracks.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic storytelling with peaks
wave-like pacing for engagement
immersive journey through themes
cathartic release in vocals
reflective moments amidst intensity

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek consistent energy throughout

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1986, What I Did On My Vacation was Ian Gillan's first solo album after his departure from Deep Purple. At this point in his career, he was exploring a more personal sound, distancing himself from the heavy metal roots that defined his previous work. This album marked a significant shift as it allowed him to showcase his versatility and embrace different musical influences.
Stylistic neighbors: David Coverdale· Ronnie James Dio· Joe Lynn Turner

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Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Scarabus 7:01
2 Money Lender 5:41
3 Puget Sound 4:24
4 No Easy Way 6:36
5 If I Sing Softly 6:12
6 I'll Rip Your Spine Out 4:31
7 New Orleans 2:39
8 Mutually Assured Destruction 3:12
9 You're So Right 2:57
10 No Laughing in Heaven 5:00
11 Long Gone 4:00
12 If You Believe Me 7:31
13 Trouble 2:36
14 Bluesy Blue Sea 4:47
15 Lucille 2:32

What to play next

Listen next

Accidentally on Purpose

1988

Go back to

Highway Star – A Journey in Rock

Full Ian Gillan discography Where to start with Ian Gillan Artists like Ian Gillan

blues rock hard rock progressive rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata