MSG (2009 Digital Remaster + Bonus Tracks)

by Andy Hinds Vastly influential guitarist Michael Schenker leads his band through another set of dependable rockers on MSG, the group's sophomore outing. Although MSG's sound doesn't offer much variation on the formula developed by Schenker's former band UFO, it hardly matters; the guitar playing is killer, as always. Schenker's fluid technical facility and impeccable tone maintain top billing throughout. Capable singer Gary Barden also helps to distinguish tracks like "On and On" and "Let Sleeping Dogs Lie." with memorable melodies, while standard fare such as "Are You Ready to Rock" predictably don't deliver many surprises. Also features a bizarre cameo from Stephen Stills.