Guitarist
Michael Schenker's solo work never equaled the consistently high songwriting standards of his
UFO heyday, when vocalist
Phil Mogg served as both a capable collaborator for the mad axeman's daunting talents, and stubborn editor for his raging egomania. (Of course Mogg had an even harder time steering
UFO post-
Schenker, but that's an entirely different review). But when left to his own devices, his bull-headed ways would result in equal amounts of brilliant and dismal moments. As such, this collection provides a great service by presenting only the very best
MSG material available. These include major hits like "Armed and Ready," "Cry for the Nations," and "Attack of the Mad Axeman," as well as a generous helping from overlooked third album Assault Attack (the only one featuring journeyman vocalist Graham Bonnett), including the stunning "Desert Song." This is the place to start. ~ Eduardo Rivadavia