1967/ 1976
1980- 1984 is a freat period for Michael Schenker, because it is at the head of a band (MSG) really capable of Rock, the real and bloody bastard Rock! Hard Rock ... Or rather, Heavy Metal, the powerful, traditional, heavy, melodic, dreamy Hevy Metal! I've only "Built To Attack" and this compilation by MSG but I'm waiting to be able to get in hands other albums by MSG. Because now I'm investigating and I discovered a band that produces music that like me a lot!
Specifically, this compilation is organized chronologically by publication of the recordings. Personally, if we want to understand MSG in its first incarnation I find that this compilation is a good start. The spirit of MSG is present because the songs produced by MSG can shine with its own light and can be very good to be included in a compilation without losing magic and charm. Honestly, I found it interesting in a compilation of this type, the radio edit of "Cry For The Nations" because more direct ofthe album version but "Captain Nemo" with the original mix seems equal to the version with "international" mix. Good music, in general, more rock than anything else. But not Hard Rock, for harder, powerful, logical, sophisticated, complicated. The Blues component is no longer present, so that the Power ballads are ballads and not Blues ballad. Guitar scores see an approach to classical music and rhythms are very tight.Interesting inserting the live version of MSG "Doctor Doctor" of UFO. But adds nothing else. Rather, it is a good listen, which never hurts.
In short, Michael Schenker is one of the best guitarists of his era, as well as an author of immortal music. Today, a little forgotten and, consequently, to be reassessed. Maybe startingthe study of MSG with "The Best Of Michael Schenker Group (1980 - 1984)" and, subsequently, deepening with its albums.