Regarding Richie Blackmore's replacement

Steve Morse is/was the man behind the Dixie Dregs, and I must say it is nearly impossible to find ANY guitarist in the world better. I mean the man has chops like you wouldn't believe. I'd recommend downloading a live version of "The Bash" off of the Dixie Dregs California Screamin album, or Steve Morse's solo track "Tumeni Notes" arguably the best playing you may here from a guitarist. Never saw Deep Purple, but did see the Dregs twice, so the boy can play. My jazz collection is only at about 150 albums or so, so I'm not an expert, just know more than most people I meet. As far as John's booklist, I think I've read two, but at least he has 1984, which would be my #1 if I ever sat down to do it. I'm in the process of reading Jack Keruac's On the Road, and man is it good. Unfortunately it's also giving me the burning desire to hitchhike out west, a temptation I really don't need.