The Michael Schenker Group

The Michael Schenker Group

Track Listings

1. Armed and Ready

2. Cry for the Nations

3. Victim of Illusion

4. Bijou Pleasurette

5. Feels Like a Good Thing

6. Into the Arena

7. Looking Out from Nowhere

8. Tales of Mystery

9. Lost Horizons

Tracks:

Armed And Ready
Cry For The Nations
Victim Of Illusion
Bijou Pleasurette
Feels Like A Good Thing
Into The Arena
Looking Out From Nowhere
Tales Of Mystery
Lost Horizons

Album Description

UK remastered pressing of the 1980 self titled debut album. EMI. 2006.

Album Details

Remastered Reissue. Comes with Impressive Sleevenotes and Includes a Critique from a Key Rock Journalist.

Customer Reviews:

KABOOM.......2007-02-05

This CD, and the one that followed...ARE THE BOMB!!! You MUST own these two! The ones that followed...I own them all, they are all great; but these two are a MUST!!

Why Don't You Own This Already? That's the REAL Question.......2006-12-19

I agree with one of the other reviewers who said that it is a travesty that Schenker's material is not more well known than it is. This debut album by MSG is a classic which, if you don't own it already, is like somebody saying they're into art but haven't heard of the Mona Lisa. Classic Rock and Michael Schenker are synonymous - in my view everybody else is a footnote compared to this man's talent.

MSG first is a classic!.......2006-12-15

MSG is the first album after he left UFO and it's a
rock classic. The songwriting and guitar work is just
brilliant and is as good as UFO's No Place to Run
released the same year. Both groups continued on even
though many UFO fans were not happy at the time. Songs
like Armed n'Ready, Cry for the Nations, Looking out
From Nowhere and the overlooked "Feels like a Good Thing"
are as good as anything he made with UFO. Now at the time
I wasn't happy with Gary Barden's vocals as he was no
Phil Moog but after time he did fit very well with the
harder rock songs MSG made at the time and the 2nd album
is just brilliant and should've sold millions but.....
If you overlooked this at the time you need to get it!

Michael Schenker at his best........2006-05-05

The first MSG album (1980) showcases Michael Schenker at his best with the help of real studio musicians (not that rag tag bunch from UFO that he left behind to do this project). This is THE pivotal album that got me into hard rock with flashy guitar solos.

Wunderkind is the god of all guitar playing.......2006-03-22

This album is a sleeper. Schenker's debut came out in 1980, a year when more then a few ground breaking albums hit store shelves. Even most serious hardrock/metal fans are completely oblivious to this album, i find this unacceptable! It has never truely recived the credit it deserved, i mean, for it's time, the guitar playing mastery of this man was absolutley unheard of and unapproachable. Micheal's combination of emotion and skill was unbeatable, i will never forget hearing "Armed & Ready" for the first time, and being blown out the window.

It is his most important/signifigant album, as it was his first time on his own, having just left UFO and Scorpions, and asembling a new band from the ground up. This first release was his greatest solo album i think, it was like he had something to prove to the world and to his old band mates. It's definatly one of the most underrated albums in rock.

MSG, the follow up, while good, didn't have the same level of energy of spirit as the debut. It was more commercial sounding but in a twisted sence of irony, the production sucked. This album is where he had it all right, best line-up, strongest material, great sound, as it was produced by Deep Purple/Rainbow bassist Roger Glover.

I'm amazed that he has never got his due in America. He was never popolur here, only in Europe. His style could make Eddie Van Halen cry himself to sleep.

Let's also not forget the OTHER virtuoso on the album, the drumming wonder Simon Philips.He is one of the greatest drummers ever.

Average customer rating:

We Knew It Was Right for Schenker to Go Solo - This is Proof
Schenker's Best
MSG 2 Flys High!
(MSG) MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP
Musically, a turning point for me......

M.S.G.
Michael Schenker Group
Manufacturer: EMI
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Michael Schenker Group
Assault Attack
The Michael Schenker Group
Built to Destroy
Lights Out

ASIN: B00004U8YD
Release Date: 2000-05-24

Tracks:

Are You Ready to Rock
Attack of the Mad Axeman
On and On
Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
But I Want More
Never Trust a Stranger
Looking for Love
Secondary Motion

Album Description

Japanese digitally remastered reissue of the heavy metal act's 1981 release. 2000 release. Standard jewel case.

Album Details

Japanese Reissue Digitally Remastered.

Customer Reviews:

We Knew It Was Right for Schenker to Go Solo - This is Proof.......2007-06-06

A superb album throughout - with stunning lead guitar playing that grabs you at the deepest part of your being. That is, it is not shred, but way better whilst being just as blistering. I admit that I like the first track the least, but On and On, Attack of the Mad Axeman, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie, and especially Looking for Love are outstanding. The solo work on Looking for Love is breath-taking. I admit that I would prefer the rhythm guitar a bit further forward in the mix, and the keyboards a little more in the background. But to criticise this album at all is like saying 'should I score it 5 stars or 6?' Definitely one to get!

Schenker's Best.......2006-12-29

The Michael Schenker Group continues to develop more of a metal edge in this, the second solo release (preceded by "Micheal Schenker Group"). With an established lineup of vocalist Gary Barden, drummer Cozy Powell, bassist Chris Glen, and ex-UFO guitarist Paul Raymond, MSG produced an album that won accolades from guitar-rock afficionados world-wide, and produced the hits "On And On" and the rock ballad "Never Trust A Stranger". "Are You Ready To Rock" starts off the album on the right note, followed immediately by "Attack Of The Mad Axeman", an appropriate title for a track that showcases Michael's ability and style. After a tumultuous departure from UFO and a well-publicised battle with alchohol, this album seems to have been a rebirth for Michael Schenker. 'MSG', in addition to the previous debut release, definitely show his creative and technical prowess at their high points. Unfortunately for this album, while being a great vocalist, Gary Barden's lyrics are quite weak and at times inane - this may be one of the reasons he was asked to leave following this album.

MSG 2 Flys High!.......2006-12-15

MSG did it again with it's 2nd release and it's
also a classic! This time Paul Raymond from UFO
and the great Cozy Powell on drums make this a
killer. Every song is great! The production is
more like UFO with Ron Nevison and he gives it
that big sound. If you like hard rock melodic but
like UFO's lights out this is for you!

(MSG) MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP.......2006-11-23

This is the second album with a new drummer(COZY POWELL RIP) new bassist (CHRIS GLEN)former UFO keyboards/rythm guitar (PAUL RAYMOND) the sound production wasn't as good as the first album for some reason but still got great songs If you listen to the first MSG album and the third one which is ONE NIGHT AT BUDOKAN you'll notice the difference in the production sound,I personaly like ONE NIGHT...because of the way Schenker and co. performed live,but I give this album 5 stars it's still a great album with excellent songs also to me Paul Raymond was the best Keyboards/Rythm guitar section for MSG & UFO!

Musically, a turning point for me.............2006-03-18

I was a handed a copy back in the autumn of '88 and so became something of a late arrival to the MSG fan club. Although at the time I knew very little about the man, his band and the album, I took to all three instantly. Two pervading memories from my initial plays of this collection are, firstly, the opening bars on 'Are You Ready To Rock' which kick-start the album in the finest way possible; and secondly, the changeover during 'Attack of the Mad Axeman' when the heavy, marching tempo falls away and explodes into a searing guitar break that takes the track to an eventual close. By and large, this is a heavy ensemble but there's a wonderful balance of melody and 'weight' which makes a rock album great. I have heard dissatisfaction about the production quality, presumably in comparison to its predecessor, 1980's 'The Michael Schenker Group' and possibly 'Assault Attack' from 1982. Maybe smoothing the edges would have appeased some but I think it's this rawness which contributes to the album's huge character. Gary Barden's often haunting, pitchy vocals are a superb match for Mr. S. and his Flying V with tracks such as 'On and On', 'Let Sleeping Dogs Lie' and 'Looking For Love' exemplifying such. Cozy Powell and Chris Glenn push the band forward relentlessly with Paul Raymond's keyboard adding a vital, exquisite flavour to the mix. In 1988, two albums jousted for occupancy of my car's cassette-player. White Lion's 'Pride' was one; MSG, of course, the other. MSG edged it. To this day it remains, in my view, a master class in rock creation. Simply, absolutely brilliant.

Average customer rating:

Great Live Performance by Schenker
So-so
ONE NIGHT AT BUDOKAN MSG
This is my favorite album ever !!
Guitar God: Thy Name Is Schenker!

One Night at Budokan
Michael Schenker Group
Manufacturer: Bgo - Beat Goes on
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Michael Schenker Group

ASIN: B0000011OR
Release Date: 2003-03-03

Tracks:

Armed And Ready
Cry For The Nations
Attack Of The Mad Axeman
But I Want More
Victim Of Illusion
Into The Arena
On And On
Never Trust A Stranger
Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
Courvoisier Concerto
Lost Horizons
Doctor Doctor
Are You Ready To Rock

Customer Reviews:

Great Live Performance by Schenker.......2007-06-06

I always find it offensive to see great Schenker material rated at less than 5-stars. This is a great album - not quite SITN I admit, but well worth it at Amazon's prices.

So-so.......2007-03-30

This was recorded shortly before the release of Schenker's second solo album. That points up the two things wrong with this: the band sounds tentative, like they're not comfortable with the new material, and the setlist is drawn almost entirely from those first two albums. That leads to some questionable choices: it opens with the big, inspiring "Ride of the Valkyries" music (uh, that's "Kill the Wabbit", if you don't recognize the name), and then the band comes in with a big, exciting, crashing chord, and you're just dying to hear them tear into "Captain Nemo", and it's an extreme letdown to hear "Armed and Ready" instead. Another odd choice is the piano ballad "Never Trust a Stranger", which surprisingly works very well live, and fits in well with the rest of the tunes because everything is played s-l-o-w. On the other hand, Schenker himself is great, so how bad can it be? And there are a couple of songs here which you won't hear in live versions anywhere else.

ONE NIGHT AT BUDOKAN MSG.......2006-11-21

If are a MSG fan this is the cd to get Michael at his best,great quality recording this cd includes songs from both first 2 albums as MSG excellent live versions of ON & ON,INTO THE ARENA,LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE.LOST HORIZON and more check it out it's worth it!

This is my favorite album ever !!.......2005-12-20

In the past 20 years I have listened to this album over and over and over and over again !!!
Michael Schenker's Pure Flawless Mastery of the Electric Guitar is reflected in almost every single song on this album!!
If you listen to the solo on "Lost Horizons" and fail to rock out, then you cannot call yourself a guitar fan.
Cozy Powell's drumming goes perfectly with Michael's guitar playing.
Gary Barden could have sounded better as a singer, but he still sings well enough to get the job done.
I loovvee this CD !!

Guitar God: Thy Name Is Schenker!.......2005-10-02

I've never heard the hype before about Gary Barden being unable to perform in front of so many people that his vocals had to be rerecorded at a later date. Hmmmmm. All I know is that looking back to the early 80's in the field of metal/hard rock, Michael Schenker was one of the bright spots and One Night At Budokan was the shizzzit! God...I had the double album and listened to it like a million times. Soooo...I guess the bottom line is this: Do you wanna revel in all the bullsh*t facts surrounding this album or do you wanna rock? I choose to rock and I choose Michael Schenker's One Night At Budokan. Is it flawless? What live album is? And that kinda fu*ks up the whole concept of making a live album in the first place, does it not? Live is not perfect, but it's different and it rocks! Schenker is one of the all-time Guitar Gods...along with Rhoads, Van Halen, Iommi, Blackmore, Santana, Malmsteen & Hendrix.... (Sure, there's some I missed, you fill in the rest...)

Average customer rating:

reminds me of Judas Priest
Built to Destroy
Dated sound, stellar Schenker
Half baked effort
Someone Screwed this mix up.

Built to Destroy
Michael Schenker Group
Manufacturer: Bgo - Beat Goes on
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Assault Attack/Rock Will Never Die
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ASIN: B0000011P4
Release Date: 2002-02-15

Tracks:

Rock My Nights Away
I'm Gonna Make You Mine
The Dogs Of War
Systems Failing
Captain Nemo
Still Love That Little Devil
Red Sky
Time Waits (For No One)
Walk The Stage

Album Description

Remastered 1996 reissue on the BGO label of their 1983 Chrysalis album featuring Gary Barden, Chris Glen, Ted McKenna and Andy Nye. Contains the original cover art and all nine original tracks, including 'Rock My Nights Away' and 'Captain Nemo'.

Album Details

European Version featuring an Alternate Track to the Japanese Pressing: Walk the Stage.

Customer Reviews:

reminds me of Judas Priest.......2007-05-23

I'm looking through the MSG stuff on Amazon because "Rock Bottom" has been in my head since I heard Tesla perform it at the New York State Fair this past fall (2006). I've watched various "Rock Bottom" videos on YouTube, and they impress me to no end. I know Amazon's short sound clips can never give full justice to songs, but almost every clip I heard had me thinking of Judas Priest. It would be nice if the clips featured the best of MSG, but they don't. Don't rely on the sound clips. Check out MSG on YouTube or myspace for a better representation. MSG rocks when you hear the full context of their songs. This isn't intended to knock Amazon in any way, since they aren't to blame for the quality of their sound clips. (I usually buy through Amazon.) Other online sites offer the same clips. Hopefully there will come a day when better clips are available. For now, though, I will check out myspace and youtube, and gladly buy anything that turns me on. My first MS purchase will have to be something with "Rock Bottom" on it. :-)

Built to Destroy.......2007-01-21

The final of the classic MSG line-up of Gary Barden, Chris Glen, Michael Schenker, and Ted Mckenna(Cozy-RIP-was the best but he liked moving around) As with most bands that do well and have a distinct sound, much of it is found in the lead vocals. David Lee Roth said it right " I am Van Halen" and with MSG, Gary Barden is no exception, he is "MSG". True there is no way to replace guitarist like Schenker or Eddie Van Halen, but the voice is up front and sets the pace for the song.

Built to Destroy (Imported version) maintains that "MSG" sound but explores the popular rock scene of the times, a little more keyboard with Andy Nye. Gary's vocals are right on and Michael's guitar work is brilliant, especially on "Nemo" and Systems Failing.

This is the American version where the entire album was remixed to push it on the charts. As a dedicated early days MSG fan, this mix gets further away from that original heavy european rock sound of MSG. I rank the american version the lowest in the Barden era. Just way too produced. As a former audio engineer, the mix in a way sounds "amatuerish" In addition, I'll never understand why they ever brought in Derek St Holmes in for vocals on "That little devil" - truly a mistake, Gary's version is far superior. He should have stuck with Ted Nugent.

The cover shot is fantastic and a great indication of what Michael would like to have done to the record executives heads that were controlling the bands work. The back cover is a beautiful example of MSG, small stage, beautiful girls and rockin' music.

If you are a first time MSG listener, go for MSG and MSGII, look for the live EP for the original MSG, it has Armed and Ready and Into the Arena live. That was my first introduction to MSG and is "The sound"

Get Built to Destroy after you're hooked, then you will be able to find those sounds from the early days throughout this album.

Cheers - Mike

Dated sound, stellar Schenker.......2005-10-20

My first introduction to Michael Schenker was through this album back in 1984. Listening back to it now, the instrumental track, "Captain Nemo", and the guitar solo to "Systems Failing" are still stellar examples of his classical-tinged blues rock playing. And while, personally, its a fine nostalgic visit to listen to the album again, its woefully evident now that the lyrics are weak and the overall slick production has that pre-1985 hair-&-spandex rock feel. Most telling of this is just how much keyboard there is on the album. A nod towards riding the "rock synth" fad that followed Van Halen's release of "Jump" of of their "1984" release, perhaps? If anything, one can always skip this one and pick up the live follow-up "Live at Hammersmith Odeon". Most of "Built to Destroy"'s tracks are on there, as well as a few others from other earlier releases. If your're looking for a better listenable intro to Schenker, get either the 1st or 2nd McAuley-Schenker albums.

One interesting note is that my CD, while it does not contain the original mixes, has "Rock Will Never Die" retitled "Walk the Stage". Having owned the recording on cassette back in 1984, and borrowed the vinyl LP then as well, that retitling made me do a 2nd look!

Half baked effort.......2004-12-10

This is not the best Schenker album, but still has a lot of his trademark guitar licks, melodic solos, expert guitar playing and some good vocals by Barden (even containing his trademark bad, I mean BAD, silly and useless lyrics).

The trouble lies in the bad production. It is too polished, what would have not been a big problem had it not sounded so lifeless, lacking punch, lacking rawness.

Anyway, for a Schenker fan, it's obligatory acquisition.

Someone Screwed this mix up........2004-02-10

This is a revamped version of the original release from '83. It is slicker, but that's it. They cut short some of the guitar solos. The best example is Red Sky, which was called "Red Sky at Night" on the Chrysalis release. This was one of my favorite Schenker songs, but when I listened to it I could'nt believe how it was butchered. This BGO version just doesn't sound like the original at all. Skip this one and find the original.

Average customer rating:

Schenker's Best
Pure Michael Schenker
"Ulcer" alone is worth the price!
It's probably the best Michael Schenker album ever!!
Good to see this on CD

Assault Attack
Michael Schenker Group
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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M.S.G.
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No Heavy Petting

ASIN: B00004U86A
Release Date: 2000-05-24

Tracks:

Assault Attack
Rock You To The Ground
Dancer
Samurai
Desert Song
Broken Promises
Searching For A Reason
Ulcer
Girl From Uptown

Album Description

Japanese digitally remastered reissue of the heavy metal act's 1982 release. Includes 2 bonus tracks 'Althuer' and 'Girl From Uptown'. 9 tracks in all. 2000 release. Standard jewel case.

Album Details

Japanese Reissue Featring Bonus Tracks and Digital Remastering.

Customer Reviews:

Schenker's Best .......2007-05-01

I've been enchanted with this album since the summer of 1984 (2 years after its release). It is definitely a summer album (see Desert Song), and the band / combination of Michael & Graham Bonnett is exceptional. Ulcer is hands down my favorite song ever...I challenge anyone who doesn't feel like they could conquer the world listening to this blistering track. Top to bottom, Schenker's best. Listen and enjoy...it's guaranteed.

Pure Michael Schenker.......2006-09-07

Assault Attack is an album full of melodic and burning guitar licks and riffs. It is by far my favorite MSG album because it captures the essence of Michael Schenker's sound and provides the listener with some great songs. All the songs have something to offer. If you like melodic hard rock or are a guitar fan, check out this album.

"Ulcer" alone is worth the price!.......2006-02-23

When "Assault Attack" came out, I remember thinking, "Graham Bonnet? Hmmmm. We'll have to listen closely." The quality of Bonnet's voice is distinctive. Not a great singer but a ballsy vocalist. I'll take 'distinct' over 'technically proficient' any day. Having said all that, it is the _instrumental_ on this album that will tear your head off; "Ulcer." The lead break is one of the fastest, cleanest, most liquid runs off a fretboard this side of Allan Holdsworth with more menace and Teutonic swagger. Back in the day, I was trying to play the solo over and over on the LP, swinging back the tone arm to catch the solo's beginning. Amazing to this day. The other song, noted more for its rhythm guitar work is "Broken Promises." Great syncopation, nice fat, warm rhythm sound, and Graham Bonnet singing his guts out, which is what the tune called for. There is _no_ filler on this album. The rhythm section was killer and Michael's touch and tone was gorgeous. I'm warning you though: that solo in "Ulcer" man! WHEW!

It's probably the best Michael Schenker album ever!!.......2005-09-29

The trick here was the production. In the hands of genius producer Martin Birch, MSG reached a whole new level of efficiency, heaviness and creativity here. The eight songs are extremely good, the production is crisp and clear, you can hear all the lines of bass, guitar and drums. Bonnet is also singing very good, altough the lyrics continued to be bad, I mean REALLY bad (a sad characteristic of MSG albums...).

It's a shame that such line-up, following the best production job ever afforded to Schneker, would not have had the opportunity to perform on a single show! That's it! Bonnet was fired during the first gig! He was always drunk, could not remember previous album's lyrics, a disgrace! Go figure...

Good to see this on CD.......2005-04-28

I bought this back when it came out and it influenced my own guitar playing tremendously.
This CD contains some of MSG's best songs (all of his early work is pretty essential though) and is probably his most consistent CD.

Average customer rating:

Tales ot Rock & Roll (MSG)
Fantastic - Schenker does it again
Pretty Good Especially the new Singer Jari Tiura
19 songs, about 2 are good

Tales of Rock N Roll
Michael Schenker Group
Manufacturer: Locomotive Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000GFRIMC
Release Date: 2006-08-01

Tracks:

The Ride
Setting Sun
Angel Of Avalon
Dreams Inside
Dust To Dust
Voice Of My Heart
Journey Man
Big Deal
St. Ann
Shadow Lady
Love Trade
Human Child
Bitter Sweet
Blind Alley
Freedom
Life Vacation
Rock`NRoll
Tell A Story
Life Goes On

Customer Reviews:

Tales ot Rock & Roll (MSG).......2006-11-23

To me this album is something like Dreams & Expressions Michael's second electric instrumental album but with vocals,ofcourse there's a lot more non stop guitar jamming than Tales.. I like it for the fact that the former singers came back to record one song each,I like the new singer Jari Tiura this album I had to listen to it twice to get into it as there's no break in between each song,but the thing about MSG albums is that they're allways different, you don't know what they're gonna sound like but the guitar playing it's allways gonna be great and since he's had different singers it has to sound different with this album you get a little taste of every singer that's been in MSG and that Pete Way plays the bass on it even do I like Reverand Jones on bass better not to take anything away from Pete Way,so I would recomend this MSG item to any Schenker fan!

Fantastic - Schenker does it again.......2006-09-06

I have reviewed this album in more detail elsewhere on this site, and so it is a bit cheeky to slip this comment in here. Yet, I just couldn't stop myself responding to the reviewer who said there were only 2 good songs on this album. No way! Rather, this is a superb album in which Schenker displays yet another facet to his musical abilities - the concept album - and does it very well indeed. There is more complexity in Tales of Rock 'n' Roll than in the average Rush album, and every bit as much melody and fine taste. Admittedly, the lyrics don't read that great, but they sound great, which is what is important. As usual, Schenker's guitar work is inspirational. So, don't just sit there: buy the album!

Pretty Good Especially the new Singer Jari Tiura.......2006-08-24

I would have to disagree with the previous reviewer on this one. I have most of M.W.S.'s works so maybe I am a bit biased but i say the songs are pretty good. It is not Assault Attack but I like it quite well. I agree the with others that say the lack of pauses in the CD make it at times blend too much. But I like this latest singer Jari Tiura more than any other of his singers since gary barden or graham bonnet and I would say after three or four complete listens I am pleased with the songs and the playing. Stand out songs are The Ride , Angel of Avalon, Dust to Dust, Big Deal, Rock'n'roll, & Tell a Story. Of course the other ex-msg singers are extra cool to hear again.

19 songs, about 2 are good.......2006-08-19

I like the creativity for marketing this album: take MSG line-up #862, record a dozen or so songs, and then add a track or two with each MSG frontman on vocals. That's pretty clever, but it doesn't overcome average songwriting.

For the Michael Schenker guitar fans, this album will not disappoint. But for those looking for solid tunes, this album is pretty weak. Not surprisingly, the Robin McAuley tune is the stand-out on this offering.

Average customer rating:

a must have for msg fans
mixed
The pinnacle of Michael Schenker
MSG's best?
Good old Schenker

Written in the Sand
Michael Schenker Group
Manufacturer: Steamhammer Us [Spv]
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Be Aware of Scorpions
Arachnophobiac
Unforgiven
Adventures of the Imagination
The Michael Schenker Group

ASIN: B00005OW7L
Release Date: 2001-10-09

Tracks:

Brave New World
Cry No More
I Believe
Back to Life
Written in the Sand
Essenz
Love Never Dies
I Will Be There
Take Me Through the Night
Down the Drain
Sweet Cool Kiss of Night [*]

Album Description

Previously only available from Japan at a higher price, now released on Sledgehammer. Contains 11 tracks including the bonus 'Sweet Cool Kiss Of The Night'. 2001.

Customer Reviews:

a must have for msg fans.......2007-05-27

this is probably michael schenkers finest work outside of ufo.the album is tight, from the first track to the last, including the bonus tracks.michaels choise of backing musicians,couldnt have been better.the vocalist, is pretty good, w/ a strong classic rock sound. the bassist/drummer are two of the best i've ever heard or had the pleasure to see perform.barry sparks is amazing on his 6 string bass.and shane gallass, the drummer, reproduces simon phillips work ( bonus track into the arena)flawlessly, a near impossible task.this work includes an insturmental titled "essence" which was an instant schenker classic, this song alone is worth what you'll pay for the entire album.and as always mr. schenker does not disappoint. he was at the top of his game when this was recorded, he was apparently in a good place in life when he wrote this work, and it shows. his sound is fresh and he was probably inspired by the caliber of the talent in this recording.A MUST HAVE !!!!

mixed.......2006-11-16

This has better songs and a better band than some of Schenker's other albums, but the songs are starting to wear on me. Compared to those "SAHB reunion" versions of MSG, the band is tighter and stronger, and the singer is decent. In fact, he's quite good, but he has an 80's-ish way of turning all the songs into anthems that gets old after a while. Schenker himself, as always, is tremendous. There's nothing as amazing as "Red Sky" or "But I Want More" on here, but there's nothing embarassing like the Macaulay Culkin project- it's really one of Schenker's more consistent albums.

The pinnacle of Michael Schenker.......2005-08-16

This is not only some of Michael Schenker's finest playing, it is without question the best band I have ever heard him play with, and I've heard most of his works. The Vocalist is absolutely amazing as is the drummer. If you like Schenker this CD is essential.

MSG's best?.......2004-01-13

This is the best MSG album since the early 80's. Not only is the playing astounding and the production superb, the songs on this disk have stood the test of time. Much superior to Michael's latest MSG (whoever that is) offerings. Check out also "The Michael Schenker Story Live" to hear this lineup record MSG's best live album.

Good old Schenker.......2003-09-26

If you like the first two Schenker solo albums, you'll like this one. Schenker's writing style (composing riffs, and forcing the vocalist to wrestle a coherent melody and song out of them) doesn't get in the way of the song composition. It is still apparent that he assembles songs this way, but it is much more smooth on this album. And finally, a good singer!
The guitar playing is inspiring, too. I just wish he's actually want to compose a song with a meaning or lyric in mind. Riffs alone aren't impressive.

Tracks:

No Turning Back
My Time`s Up
Fallen The Love
Because I Can
How Will You Get Back
Blinded By Technology
Age Of Ice
Standin` On The Road
Sea Of Memory
On Your Way
Reflection Of Your Heart
Roll It Over
Eyes Of A Child

Album Description

Playing the guitar, writing songs, producing albums, going on tour - for Michael Schenker, music is more than a job or simply a way of earning your living, it's the ultimate focus of his life. Not a day goes by without Schenker picking up one of his beloved guitars, preferably a white Gibson Flying V, and letting his apparently inexhaustible creativity run wild. Schenker: “I play the guitar every day, and I record most of my ideas on a small recording machine so I can develop the best of them into proper songs later. That's how I've always created my numbers, everything is spontaneous and natural. My compositions are always authentic, they're an accurate reflection of what I happen to be feeling at the moment.”

Yet Schenker leaves no doubt that the albums that his band MSG has produced live off the chemistry between the musicians involved, and so his current offering Be Aware Of Scorpions is the result of a constant giving and taking of ideas, inspirations, and emotions, based on Schenker's fantastic guitar work. In Chris Logan, MSG have found a young, previously unknown vocalist whose talent is impossible to ignore. “Chris was recommended to me by Mike Varney, who has a reputation of having a sure instinct for talented young musicians. I think we will hear a lot about Chris in future.” He enlisted the services of his old U.F.O. crony Jeff Martin to play the drums, and Martin in turn suggested bassist Rev Jones. The thirteen new tracks were produced by Schenker in collaboration with engineer Ralph Patlan at the Schenker Records Recording Studios in Phoenix.

Customer Reviews:

Measure Your Rock Music Taste Levels.......2006-07-19

Beware of Scorpions is a superb rock album of immense complexity, stunning and occasionally nigh-on impossible guitar-work, and with a depth that means it is still growing on me after years of owning it. I readily admit that those locked into the nostalgia of Schenker's early UFO days will not like the way Schenker keeps on 'moving on' in his music. However, to my mind, the degree to which this album is appreciated says a lot about how one's musical tastes have developed. Buy it, and let Schenker re-educate you as to what rock should sound like!

A New Direction..............2003-10-16

For you long time Michael Schenker fans, especially those of you who have seen him live with UFO and his own bands, his talent is like this unharnessable ball of energy; the riffs, rhythms and leads flow from a seemingly endless supply. I thought Michael had played himself out of the band unit (close fans know how volatile Michael can be), relegating to instrumental work (with the 2000 exception of "Sharks" with Phil Mogg & UFO); and then came THIS album. I am guessing that the less favorable reviews are coming from those who are not entirely familiar with Michael's focus and abilities. One might call this a concept album, as it experiments with musical boundaries outside the mainstream "rock" theme that MSG generally focuses upon (Symphony Xesque). The only thing keeping me from giving this album a 5 star review is that I know the current combination will get better if they stay together; and it has for those who have heard the '03 "Arachnaphobiac" with the same members. Here on "..Scorpions" Michael is flamboyant as usual, but spreads out the chunks, chops and orgasmic soloing to fit the song themes. Chris Logan is a rising star, and the altruistic storylines (some would call them Christian) of the songs are a welcome breath of fresh air. If you are a MSG fan, this album is a must, a new beginning; if you are not, this album is probably not the best place to start; maybe UFO's "Walking On Water" would be a more appropriately recent place to get your feet wet. I personally think Michael is fabulous in anything he composes, but most probably I am biased by 30 years of his virtuosity.

rock elevator music.......2003-10-03

This CD is just plain boring and unimaginative. You will probably have a hard time remembering anything about it after you are done listening to it (if you have the patience). Of course, Schenker cannot and does not play a bad guitar. However, there are no hooks or memorable riffs here, no excitement, no edge. The result is pointless filler.

MSG Rocks On!.......2003-07-05

I'll make this short and sweet,this a great cd!I really dont understand the negative reviews.Chris Logan is the best vocalist that's sang for MSG,hope he stays with the band.No fillers on this disc,all the songs rock!Well worth buying!

Obviously someone with a chip on his shoulder.......2003-07-01

...At the absolute worst, this album is decent. I personally think it's great! Michael's solo work is top notch, and the band backs him up in excellent form. The singer, Chris Logan, does a fine job completing the picture here. He's obviously not as seasoned a vocalist as Gary Barden or Graham Bonnet, but for a debut effort I give this guy an triple A+++. He sounds as good or better than Kelly Keeling does on Unforgiven, and that's a pretty high compliment. Jeff Martin kicks butt on the drums, adding a real classic MSG feel to the whole album. If you are a fan of the Robin McAuley era of MSG and nothing more, you might find only one or two tunes here that will satisfy your desire to rehash something you've already heard before. But if you're a true MSG fan - someone who appreciates the Metal roots of MSG and is looking for something new - you're in for a treat! Definitely a recommended purchase.

If you think this album is good, you'll be completely blown away by the 2003 MSG album "Arachnophobiac"!! Michael and Chris are together again here, and take things miles beyond their great collaboration on Be Aware Of Scorpions.

The Michael Schenker Group
Average customer rating:

Flying V Master let loose upon the masses!

One Of MSG's Best

MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP (MICHAEL SCHENKER)

Classic solo debut from Michael Schenker

It's hard to explain...

The Michael Schenker Group
Michael Schenker Group
Manufacturer: Disky Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000071JR2
Release Date: 2004-01-01

Tracks:

Armed and Ready
Cry for the Nations
Victim of Illusion
Bijou Pleasurette
Feels Like a Good Things
Into the Arena
Looking out from Nowhere
Tales of Mystery
Lost Horizons

Customer Reviews:

Flying V Master let loose upon the masses!.......2007-03-03

I recently purchased the re-mastered version,and the first thing I must say is...WOW! The music is great,EVERY song kicks-a$$...for reals.
This is THE CD to own,before any other Schenker release. How many CD's can you buy that show a true rock and roll Master at his finest hour? This is definitely one of the few.
I bought the UFO Light's Out re-master,too,and they both have so much more clarity and punch than they originally had. It's a joy to hear the difference.
Excellent buy,get the re-master version.

One Of MSG's Best.......2006-12-29

This is the debut solo release by Michael Schenker and the Michael Schenker Group, commonly referred to as MSG, following his departure from popular British rock powerhouse UFO. After a brief (second) stint with Scorpions, Schenker went into the studio to record and release a solo album. In order to retain complete creative control he used session musicians including little-known vocalist Gary Barden. Production was handled by former Deep Purple/Rainbow bassist Roger Glover. Following the release of the album Schenker chose Barden, drummer Cozy Powell, bassist Chris Glen, and ex-UFO guitarist Paul Raymond for the purposes of touring. This is the lineup that most MSG fans generally recognised as the "best" of the variety of MSG lineups, but would only last until the end of the second album. The first two releases really show Schenker at his creative and technical best, before his personal bottled demons began haunting him.

The album starts off with the tasty guitar-driven rocker "Armed And Ready" before thundering into the anti-war "Cry For The Nations". This album was custom-recorded to feature Michael's guitar virtuosity, and it doesn't disappoint. He even features some neo-classicalism in the form of the instrumental "Bijou Pleasurette". Other highlights are "Feels Like A Good Thing and "Looking Out From Nowhere". One of the things that struck me was the fact that although the music here has a distinct fingerprint, none of the songs on this album would have been out of place on any of the albums he recorded with UFO, showing just how big an impact he had on that particular group.

Michael's songwriting and playing prowess were noticed immediately, and "The Michael Schenker Group" leapt to number 8 on the UK album charts. "Armed And Ready" received airplay worldwide, and energized Schenker to immediately dive back into the studio.

MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP (MICHAEL SCHENKER).......2006-11-25

This is like the rebirth of Schenker or what he had been wanting to do all along,A new look,new music but still his own style, after he left UFO this is the album that I had been waiting for, the begining of a new Schenker era again Excellent album all fresh material,great line up and his own trademark the black & white flying V, I can't believe that was 26 years ago and he's still creating great music,there's very few guitarist like Schenker left in this world,very few!

Classic solo debut from Michael Schenker.......2006-08-17

THE BAND: Gary Barden (vocals), Michael Schenker (guitars), Chris Glen (bass), Cozy Powell (drums & percussion).

THE DISC: (1980) 9 tracks clocking in at approximately 39 minutes. Included with the disc is a 6-page booklet containing song titles/credits/times (no lyrics), a brief intro from Jerry Ewing ("Classic Rock Magazine"), and some vintage pictures of Schenker. All songs written by Schenker and/or Barden. Now an import, this 1980 release is hard to find in stores. Digitally remastered (in Holland)... sadly, no bonus tracks. Label - Chrysalis Records.

COMMENTS: My introduction to the man named Schenker was in 1981 with the "MSG" album featuring the hit "On And On". From that point on, I've been collecting his material... old and new. Back in 1981, I remember searching and finding this '80 release on vinyl and wondering - why isn't this guy more popular? All Schenker's albums with UFO were next to purchase. 30+ years later Schenker still manages to squeeze out albums. In my opinion, Schenker is one of the all-time great rock guitarists... an underrated legend if ever there was one. He was clearly on a roll - playing on some of the great rock albums of the 70's and continuing into the 80's... with UFO - "Lights Out" (1977), "Obsession" (1978), "Strangers In The Night" (1978); and with MSG - this self titled album (1980), "MSG" (1981) and his best live album with MSG, "One Night In Budakon" (1981). In my book Schenker could do no wrong. I put him on the perch right below Jimi Hendrix and Jimmy Page... that lofty place where Ritchie Blackmore, Eddie Van Halen, Tommy Iommi, Randy Rhoads, David Gilmour, and Alex Lifeson are sitting. Yet, somehow, with all the music Schenker was appearing on, the popularity escaped the man. Rarely do you hear his material (specifically his solo and MSG material) on the radio. Perhaps it was the constant line of musicians entering and exiting his band... no consistency (?). On the flip side - maybe that is/was part of the appeal - you never knew what you were going to get on his albums. This "Michael Schenker Group" release started his solo career off with a bang. He put out numerous albums during the 80's and 90's but none were better than this first one... with "MSG" (1981) in a close 2nd place. This album starts off with one of my favorites in his entire catalog... a great rocking opener with a blistering guitar solo, "Armed And Ready". A solid one-two punch - track 2 is "Cry For The Nations" - a downright pleasant 30 second intro, followed by an explosion and the rest of the band kicking in... a slow rocker with meaning (another classic from his vast catalog). Other highlights include the 2 instrumentals - the acoustic "Bijou Pleasurette" and the heavy shredding "Into The Arena", "Looking Out From Nowhere", the acoustic power ballad "Tales Of Mystery", and the heavy 7 minute album closer "Lost Horizons". The album is solid all the way through - no filler tracks to be found. If you're looking to add some Michael Schenker to your collection, start with ANY of the UFO/MSG albums mentioned above. This is classic Schenker (5 stars).

It's hard to explain..........2005-07-26

Its hard to explain how Michael Schenker,e ven sometimes playing the simplest of solos, can make you feel emotion like nothing else... This guy has an unique style, sometimes even a mediocre song is worth a listen due to the solo...

Fortunately, this debut has no mediocre songs at all. It's classic after classic, greta stuff after stuff, a stellar line-up with Mo Foster, Simon Phillips and Don Airey. Gary Barden handles the vocals with competence, also. The album get you by the throat since the first chord, then never let it go. It's considered by many his ultimate masterpiece. You can't go wrong: if you like hard rock, this is one of the best of all times.

Average customer rating:

They screwed Schenker on this one, but he's still The Man!
Is This "MSG" "Michael Schenker" or ????
Wow, another album of covers, what a surprise!!
This is a Shame...Michael Schenker did not approve this release
the master is back

Heavy Hitters
Michael Schenker Group
Manufacturer: Cleopatra
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0009VI4LC
Release Date: 2005-07-12

Tracks:

All Shook Up
Blood Of The Sun
Doctor Doctor
War Pigs
I'm Not Talking
Money
Out In The Fields
Hair Of The Dog
I Don't Live Today
Politician

Product Description

1. All Shook Up
2. Blood Of The Sun
3. Doctor Doctor
4. War Pigs
5. I'm Not Talking
6. Money
7. I Don't Live Today
8. Hair Of The Dog
9. Out In The Fields
10. Politician

Format: CD

Customer Reviews:

They screwed Schenker on this one, but he's still The Man!.......2007-02-17

This is a misrepresented CD;Schenker put his trust in Kulick and was shafted. BUT...let me say this about Schenker. I had a compadre,a guitar player that had never heard Michael before,and he saw this laying about and stuck it in his personal CD player...and I didn't get it back 'till 3 days later. PROOF that everything he does has musical,guitar God merit.
Having said that,buy any OTHER CD by Schenker first and this one last.
The band sounds like a sophmoric cover band,only MS shines...

Is This "MSG" "Michael Schenker" or ????.......2005-12-29

We need to give Michael Schenker credit for staying busy. Like so many other old time Rockers his guitar playing shows absolutely no sign of wear or tear. He does however show a lack of better judgement with this "Heavy Hitters" release.
The name calling blame game over wether this was a legitimate release with Michaels permission does not matter !!
Heavy Hitters was released and should be evaluated on its own merits not on the merits of people in management behind the scenes. Now that the piont has been made, lets talk about this Cd.
It features a solid line up of musicians that offer us fine performances. The recording and production values are solid overall {still room for improvement}.
Michaels guitar work is explosive and defined. It has all this going for it "yet" it fails to live up to its potential.

Michael Schenker is an awesome talent, so why does every lead solo he plays sound so similiar to the one before it. He is supposed to accurately duplicate the fine guitar playing of the original artist. He doesn't even come close and what's worse is his lack of respect towards the original guitarist. It is bad enough that he should neglect to capture the style of the original artist "but" he also neglects to change his tone settings for each of these songs. It sounds as if Michael came in to record his parts after everybody else was through. He plays like someone on short notice. His solos sound rushed and uneventful. Michael should have payed closer attention to dulpicating the style and sound of the original guitarist. The whole piont of doing cover songs is to do justice to the workings of the original.
The same holds true for the drummers, bassist, keyboardist and vocalist who decide to record cover songs. Keep it real and play it true !!!! Michael Schenker did this for the money. Pure and simple.

Even with its many faults "Heavy Hitters" does offer some solid stuff here and there.
A few of the more decent versions are:
Blood Of The Sun, Doctor Doctor, War Pigs, Money, and Politician.
If your really interested in hearing how cover songs should be played then pick up a copy of Pat Travers "Power Trio" Cd or Styx "Big Bang Theory".

Final thoughts: We sould be thankful that he chose not to pay tribute to such great artist as the Beatles, Led Zepplin, Jethro Tull, Jimi Hendix, or Steppenwolf. If he played them the way he played these it would have been an abomination.
Mr.Schenker, you are a true talent and a guitar vituoso so please keep it real next time around "okay" ?

Wow, another album of covers, what a surprise!!.......2005-10-28

Awesome line-up of talent, lack of effort by not writing/creating/producing new material. No one should care how great the covers sound, stuff like this gets old real quick to anyone who ever listened to Schenker. It was because of his originality and creativity that made him the guitar hero he is/was. Listening to this (and his other covers) is like microwaving a frozen dinner. The food's already there & prepared... just needing to be heated. Try something unique.. an entire album of original material.

This is a Shame...Michael Schenker did not approve this release.......2005-10-23

Bob Kulick and Cleopatra Records, but mainly Bob Kulick released with compilation without Schenkers approval, or consent. Schenker did record the guitar parts, but everything else was plotted and concieved without his knowing and it shows. This is not an MSG release, this is a star-studded affair which happens to feature Schneker on all lead guitar on all tracks. Bob Kulick is a favorite to do these types of tribute releases, but this one was not with Michael Schenker's participation on the album. Schenker had no idea nor was told who is to perform on each song. While there are some good performances, it's a letdown and does not warrant to being either an MSG or a "real" Michael Schenker release. Bob Kulick and Cleopatra records are responsible for the misrepresentation of MSG on this slimeball release.

the master is back.......2005-10-10

since michael schenkers recent marital and financial problems, it was debatable whether or not he would ever recover. But let me tell you my friends he has done so in spades. even though these are just covers, he makes them all his own with a who's who cast of rock luminaries that shine on every track. the next thing i would like to see from mr. schenker is an album of originals that still showcase his unique talent.

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