UFO:- Strangers in the Night

Release:- 1978
Band Members:- Andy Parker, Michael Schenker, Paul Raymond, Phil Mogg, Pete Way,
Krillion's Rating:- 89%


Often heralded as one of the best live albums of the 70's and I for one would not disagree. I always thought 'UFO's' early studio albums lacked consistency, while they featured a couple of jewels there always seemed to be a fair amount of filler present, but here it's all quality played with more gusto and energy than the studio counterparts. Recorded live in Chicago and Louisville the audience are pretty lively and combine with a decent recording, especially for 78' to make for a memorable release.

After a brief introduction to the band, we are quickly propelled into 'Natural Thing' a lively rendition highlighting a fine guitar solo from 'Michael Schenker' who turns in a superb performance throughout the album, while vocalist 'Phil Mogg' sounds better live than on their early studio albums. 'Out in the Street' follows and as with the first track they produce a faultless version complete with the sweet melody of the original and fine mid track instrumental break. The quality continues with the live favourite 'Only you can Rock Me' and in my estimation this flawlessly executed track betters the studio counterpart with it's crisper, energetic approach. More classic 'UFO' takes the shape of 'Doctor Doctor' and as with the previous track this rendition betters the original with it's slightly rawer, rhythm heavy style. 'Mother Mary' follows and improves vastly from the cut featured on 'Force It', overall heavier and more purposeful and definitely makes the mark. Continuing with tracks from the aforementioned album is 'This Kids', a solid number which works especially well live, with the strong plodding rhythm and fine fret work really coming across superbly. The pace drops for the balladsy 'Love to Love' and as with the studio version the eerie instrumental introduction sounds great, while the rest of the track continues in fine form with steadfast vocals and stunning 'Michael Schenker' guitar work. The tempo is lifted for a galloping rendition of the class rocker 'Lights Out', brisker and overall stronger than the original and another live treat. Even better is the superb cut of 'Rock Bottom' possibly my favourite 'UFO' track which is played impeccable well, with solid vocals, inventive fret work and steadfast rhythm. 'Too Hot to Handle' follows and while not as energetic as some of the previous tracks it still fails to disappoint with more dynamic fret work from 'Michael Schenker'. The pace drops for 'I'm a Loser', not really one of their best in my opinion but a better rendition than the album counterpart. The tempo is restored with a pulsating version of 'Let it Roll', vocally 'Phil Mogg' lacks a little crispness in his delivery but still a solid cut. 'Strangers in the Night' goes out strongly with the old favourite 'Shoot Shoot' which is well executed and closes a landmark release.

This would be 'Michael Schenker's' swan-song as he left 'UFO' shortly after, only to rejoin many years later and again depart. This stands as a fine testament to an underrated group and while they failed to recapture the glory days of which this album reflects, 'UFO' have stayed faithful to the music and continued releasing despite various line-up changes.


Track Listing:- Natural Thing, Out in the Street, Only you can Rock Me, Doctor Doctor, Mother Mary, This Kids, Love to Love, Lights Out, Rock Bottom, Too Hot to Handle, I'm a Loser, Let it Roll, Shoot Shoot,