David Coverdale (1977) Peace Loving Man

A extremely nuanced vocal performance form Coverdale on his first solo album, Whitesnake, which would soon be the moniker for his 80's hair band. Here Micky Moody's guitar playing is smooth and sensual and the power ballad feel along with the horns and choral backing vocals are utterly at odds with the thick metal drive of the namesake band, of course that would be later down the line with different members. Though here his vocals play a central role as opposed to later hits where his presence and appearance would take centre stage. But there are still some soul and blues leftover vibes from his Deep Purple days, particularly on this Joe Cocker sounding track.

 Also check out the other subtle vocals of Hole in the Sky, the busy Kool and the Gang funk of Celebration and the hard rock thud of the title track that actually mirrors the slamming guitars style the band would latterly adopt a decade away.