'Mechanix' was the first 'UFO' album I bought and at the time was pretty impressed by the majority of the album. Retrospectively I still think this is one of their best studio releases, ok there is a couple of suspect tracks, but in my opinion this is one of their most consistent and enjoyable releases. I personally am not of the opinion that 'UFO' weren't worth considering without 'Michael Schenker' and guitarist 'Paul Chapman' turns in another excellent performance here to prove the critics wrong.

The album gets off to a very good start with 'The Writer' an excellently penned track, set to a solid grooving rhythm, the keyboard work compliments of 'Neil Carter' is fitting, while the brass sections work better than you might think- fine opener. Much less impressive is 'Somethin' Else' which I believe is a cover, regrettably though it sounds like some dire 50's song, 'Phil Mogg' works the lyrics well, but ultimately this was a very poor choice. The tempo falls for the ballad 'Back into my Life', as 'UFO' slow numbers go this is solid, with a nice melody, the backing vocals give it a slight Country feel but 'Mogg's' contribution makes up for this. Better still is the broody mid tempo 'You'll Get Love' which is braced by a divine chugging rhythm, sweet solo and more sharp vocals- a disregarded track. The first half closes with the ballad come rocker 'Doing it All for You', which commences pretty tamely only to spring into life with some glorious uptempo guitar work, again nicely penned and well arranged. Following strongly is the energetic 'We Belong to the Night' which ebbs and flows in fine form and is complimented by more impressive 'Chapman' guitar work and a hearty performance from 'Pete Way' and 'Andy Parker'. 'Let it Rain' ensues with a more traditional 'UFO' sound and is perhaps the most recognised song from the album, this mid tempo rocker is yet another highlight with strong lyrics and a great workmanlike performance. Next up is the sloppy ballad 'Terri', the choruses are pretty dire but the verses are stronger, while 'Feel It' is a fairly run-of-the-mill affair, the solo is decent but all told sounds recycled from previous albums. Lastly is the uptempo rocker 'Dreaming' which opens with some sweet fret work and fails to let up, lyrically it's perhaps a little light, but musically this is bang on, with another glorious performance from 'Paul Chapman'.

Yes I have rated this higher than more recognised 'UFO' albums and I'll make no apologies. This is an overlooked album and those who slate 'Paul Chapman' should get hold of a copy (no easy task now!) and reassess his performance.