"Difficult to Cure" is the fifth studio album by British rock band Rainbow, released in 1981. It marks a transitional period for the band, as it is the first album to feature vocalist Joe Lynn Turner, who replaced Graham Bonnet.
The album showcases Rainbow's signature blend of hard rock and heavy metal, with a focus on catchy melodies, virtuosic guitar solos, and powerful vocals. However, "Difficult to Cure" also incorporates elements of progressive rock and classical music, particularly on the album's title track, which is an instrumental adaptation of Ludwig van Beethoven's "Ninth Symphony."
Standout tracks on "Difficult to Cure" include "I Surrender," a melodic hard rock anthem with a memorable chorus, and "Can't Happen Here," a driving rocker with a politically charged message. The album also features covers of Russ Ballard's "I Surrender" and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's "Eine kleine Nachtmusik."
Despite facing initial skepticism from fans due to the lineup change, "Difficult to Cure" was a commercial success, reaching number three on the UK Albums Chart and receiving positive reviews from critics. It helped solidify Rainbow's reputation as one of the leading bands in the hard rock and heavy metal genres during the early 1980s.
Overall, "Difficult to Cure" remains a classic album in Rainbow's discography, showcasing the band's versatility and musical prowess while also marking a new chapter in their evolution. With its blend of memorable songs and virtuosic performances, the album continues to be celebrated by fans of hard rock and heavy metal.
