Album Review: Michael Schenker Group - Universal

Album Review: Michael Schenker Group - Universal

The one and only Micheal Schenker is back with the newest MSG release entitled Universal. The album is layered with huge riffs, epic solos, and with impeccable production. The sound quality and mixing of the album is the thing that first resonated with me. Makes for an enjoyable listen and polished sound.

There are so many guest musicians featured on the album but Ronnie Romero is on primary Lead Vocalist. Romero has fronted The Ferrymen and Vandenburg with a powerful voice but lacks passion at times on the album. 

Track Listing: 

  1. Emergency (feat, Barry Sparks & Simon Phillips
  2. Under Attack
  3. Calling Baal (feat. Tony Carey)
  4. A King Has Gone (feat. Micheal Kiske, Bobby Rondinelli, Bob Daisley & Tony Carey)
  5. The Universe (feat. Gary Barden & Barry Sparks)
  6.  Long Long Road (feat. Micheal Voss)
  7. Wrecking Ball (feat. Ralf Scheepers) 
  8. Yesterday is Dead (feat. Brian Tichy & Barry Sparks)
  9. London Calling (feat. Micheal Voss) 
  10. Sad Is The Song (feat. Barry Sparks & Simon Phillips 
  11. Au Revoir (feat. Barry Sparks & Simon Phillips 
  12. Turn Off The World (feat. Brian Tichy)
  13. Fighter (Brian Tichy & Barry Sparks) 

Much of this album is right up any guitar shredder’s alley but it almost seems overwhelming at times. I remember playing in bands and having to listen to hours of guitar players noodling around on the guitar neck in full solos.

Honestly, after a while, it tends to blend together and lack a certain amount of passion or artistry. It verges on, it’s more important for Micheal to stroke his own ego than to create a musical masterpiece.

Rating: 5/10

Released By: AFM Records

Release Date: May 27th, 2022

Favorite Track(s): Ghost Shadow, Fire Rain and Teabag

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