You are sitting on the black leather sofa in Deep Purple’s rehearsal studio, with the dim light reflecting off the old vinyl floor. The air is heavy with expectation. Ian Paice tunes the drums in a corner, and Ritchie Blackmore adjusts his guitar silently, as focused as ever. You know that, although they called you in, this is more than just a demo: they’re seeking approval, a sign from you that they’re on the right track.

Roger Glover approaches with a relaxed smile and hands you a glass of water. “Ready?” he asks.

The room falls completely silent as Ian Gillan leans into the microphone. Without warning, the aggressive riff of Highway Star bursts forth. The band’s energy explodes in a whirlwind of piercing chords and thundering drums. Every instrument screams independence, yet the unity is flawless. Gillan’s voice cuts through the air, almost defiant.

You let yourself go, your fingers drumming on the armrest to the beat of the drums. There’s something wild and free in the song, as if it captures the essence of rock in its purest form. Ritchie slides his hand furiously along the guitar neck, his solo pouring fire into every note.

When they finish, the echo of the final note slowly dissolves into the studio. For a moment, no one speaks. Then Blackmore raises an eyebrow at you, almost as a silent challenge. “Well?” says Gillan, crossing his arms, clearly eager for your opinion.

The band exchanges satisfied glances. “We knew it was good,” Jon Lord murmurs, “but we needed you to confirm it.”