Michael Schenker, the guitar virtuoso renowned for his work with UFO, Scorpions, and his own Michael Schenker Group (MSG), is set to release a new album celebrating his formative years with the iconic British hard rock band. Titled My Years With UFO, the album, due out on September 20th, features eleven re-recorded classic UFO tracks, boasting an impressive lineup of guest musicians including Axl Rose, Slash, and Dee Snider. This project promises a thrilling journey back to the era that propelled both Schenker and UFO to international acclaim.
The album is more than a simple re-recording; it’s a reimagining of Schenker’s legacy with UFO, infused with the energy and talent of some of rock’s biggest names. Schenker’s core band for the project comprises Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater, Black Country Communion) on keyboards, Brian Tichy (Whitesnake, Ozzy Osbourne) on drums, and Barry Sparks (UFO, Dokken) on bass, providing a powerful and dynamic foundation for the guest performances.
A Galaxy of Rock Stars Join Schenker’s UFO Tribute
My Years With UFO sees a diverse range of artists lending their talents to Schenker’s vision. Axl Rose, the legendary frontman of Guns N’ Roses, takes the vocal reins on the iconic power ballad “Love to Love.” Slash, Guns N’ Roses’ iconic guitarist, adds his signature fiery riffs to “Mother Mary,” while Dee Snider, the unmistakable voice of Twisted Sister, delivers a powerful rendition of “Natural Thing.”
The guest list extends beyond these rock titans. Other notable contributions include Stephen Pearcy (Ratt) on “Shoot, Shoot,” Roger Glover (Deep Purple) on “Only You Can Rock Me,” Joe Lynn Turner (Rainbow, Deep Purple) on “Doctor, Doctor” and “Too Hot to Handle,” Jeff Scott Soto (Yngwie Malmsteen, Journey) on “Lights Out,” Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Night Ranger) on “Natural Thing,” Carmine Appice (Vanilla Fudge, Cactus) on “Doctor, Doctor” and “Too Hot to Handle,” Erik Gronwall (H.E.A.T) on “Mother Mary,” Biff Byford (Saxon) on “This Kids,” Kai Hansen (Gamma Ray, Helloween) on “Rock Bottom,” Adrian Vandenberg (Whitesnake) on “Too Hot To Handle,” John Norum (Europe) on “Lights Out,” and Michael Voss on “Let It Roll.” This collaborative effort brings a fresh perspective to UFO’s classic material, showcasing the enduring influence of Schenker’s songwriting and guitar work.
Revisiting UFO’s Golden Age
Schenker joined UFO in the early 1970s as a teenager, quickly becoming an integral part of their sound. His distinctive guitar style, characterized by soaring melodies and blistering solos, helped define the band’s signature hard rock sound. The albums released during Schenker’s tenure, including Phenomenon, Force It, No Heavy Petting, Lights Out, Obsession, and the live masterpiece Strangers in the Night, are considered cornerstones of the hard rock and heavy metal genres.
My Years With UFO serves as a tribute to these seminal albums, revisiting the tracks that solidified UFO’s place in rock history. Schenker’s decision to re-record these songs with a new lineup and a star-studded cast of guests demonstrates his desire to both honor the past and breathe new life into these timeless classics.
“My Years With UFO”: A Track-by-Track Overview
The album’s tracklist reads like a best-of compilation of Schenker’s UFO years, offering a comprehensive overview of his contributions to the band’s sound. From the hard-hitting riffs of “Rock Bottom” and “Shoot, Shoot” to the melodic brilliance of “Lights Out” and “Only You Can Rock Me,” My Years With UFO captures the essence of what made UFO such a force in the rock world. The inclusion of the epic “Love to Love,” featuring Axl Rose, is a particularly exciting highlight, promising a unique interpretation of one of UFO’s most beloved songs.
- “Natural Thing” (feat. Dee Snider, Joel Hoekstra)
- “Only You Can Rock Me” (feat. Joey Tempest, Roger Glover)
- “Doctor, Doctor” (feat. Joe Lynn Turner, Carmine Appice)
- “Mother Mary” (feat. Slash, Erik Gronwall)
- “This Kids” (feat. Biff Byford)
- “Love To Love” (feat. Axl Rose)
- “Lights Out” (feat. Jeff Scott Soto, John Norum)
- “Rock Bottom” (feat. Kai Hansen)
- “Too Hot To Handle” (feat. Joe Lynn Turner, Adrian Vandenberg, Carmine Appice)
- “Let It Roll” (feat. Michael Voss)
- “Shoot, Shoot” (feat. Stephen Pearcy)
More Than a Nostalgia Trip
My Years With UFO is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane. It’s a testament to the enduring power of Schenker’s music and his influence on generations of guitarists. By revisiting these classic tracks with a fresh perspective and a stellar lineup of guest musicians, Schenker has created an album that will appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The project offers a unique opportunity to experience UFO’s music through a new lens, showcasing the timeless quality of Schenker’s songwriting and guitar prowess.
A Celebration of Musical Heritage and Collaboration
The album is a celebration of musical heritage and collaboration, bringing together some of the most iconic names in rock to pay tribute to a pivotal era in Schenker’s career. With its blend of classic rock energy and contemporary flair, My Years With UFO promises to be a must-listen for any fan of hard rock and heavy metal. The release of this album is highly anticipated, marking a significant moment in Schenker’s career and offering a fresh perspective on the legacy of UFO.
FAQ: Your Questions About “My Years With UFO” Answered
Q: When is My Years With UFO being released?
A: The album is scheduled for release on September 20th.
Q: Where can I pre-order the album?
A: Pre-order information will be available soon through earMusic and various online retailers. Check Michael Schenker’s official website and social media channels for updates.
Q: Will there be a tour to support the album?
A: While no official tour dates have been announced, it is possible that Schenker may embark on a tour to promote the album. Stay tuned for updates.
Q: What other projects is Michael Schenker currently working on?
A: Information on Schenker’s other projects can be found on his official website and social media channels.
We encourage you to share your thoughts and questions about My Years With UFO in the comments below. Let us know which track you’re most excited to hear!