Obsession by UFO (Rock) (CD, Aug-2008, Caroline World Service)

UFO had released many albums previous to "Obsession", including the popular "Lights Out", and the awesome, live "Strangers In the Night", which proved the group to be an act best seen live, but....this is the release that brought all of their potential together in one album. The CD is chalk-full of classic rockers, mid-tempo burners and even a baroque sounding instrumental break, "Arbory Hill"....but don't be fooled, this is a hard-rocking album from the opener "Only you Can Rock Me", there is no let up when the beat of "Pack It Up (And Go)" kicks right in. The nervous energy of "Hot-n-Ready" makes you think the band is going to explode. Then there is my personal favorite..."Cherry", which is an instant UFO classic, maybe their best. Some of the songs like "Cherry" have great tempo shifts that make the songs seem to cut loose with a fury."Lookin' Out For No. 1" is the great not quite full blown rocker, not quite ballad that defines all great UFO releases. Michael Schenker's guitar solo on this song is epic! Herr Schenker's guitar work is impeccably strong throughout, as though an omen that this is the best you'll get from me, if not the last...which it was on both counts. Phil Mogg is as sturdy as ever and always seems either upset or anguished (does he ever sound happy?...lol). That's why we love him...he's a blue collar, p.o.'d singer in a blue collar, hard-rocking band. Andy Parker beats the skins off the drums, providing the driving force along with Pete Way's always out front bass. I can only say that if this CD isn't in your hard rock arsenal...you are missing a gem!!! Buy it today!