Heavy Hitters is the title of this all-tribute album, incorrectly - in my poor opinion - released under the moniker of Michael Schenker Group. Virtuoso six-string pioneer welcomes a hall-of-fame guest list (see below) for this release, so I think it would be fair enough for this CD to be credited as Michael Schenker alone. Just a little bit of philosophy, as an appetizer...
On a song by song basis:
All Shook Up: This Carl Perkins classic, adjusted to the unique Schenker 'motivo', also features Joe Lynn Turner (vocals), Jeff Pilson (bass) and Aynsley Dunbar (drums). Not perfect for an opener but really cute.
Blood Of The Sun: With original Mountain legend Leslie West behind the mic, I can just imagine Michael's sensation. A great performance, with Rudy Sarzo on bass and Simon Wright behind the kit.
Doctor Doctor: A piano intro, really touchy, and a good improvisation of the original UFO anthem. Contribution in this one comes from Jeff Scott Soto - not his best move, I guess - on vocals, bassist Marco Mendoza and skinsman Brett Chassen.
War Pigs: Michael had the balls to make this anthem-ic tune sound different, supported by the excellent performance of Tim Ripper Owens (vocals), Mike Inez (bass) and Aynsley Dunbar.
I'm Not Talking: Have never heard the original, but this 60's legendary band with such renowned guitarists (Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page etc) was definitely a dynamic must for all 70's/ 80's guitar heroes. Top-class Michael Schenker, with the valuable help of Mark Slaughter (vocals), Jeff Pilson (bass) and Aynsley Dunbar.
Money: How to transcribe even this one into an up-tempo bluesy Rock tune. My favorite, Pink Floyd should hear it some time! I bet Stevie Ray Vaughn would have handled half of the solo work, if he could... Not to forget, Tommy Shaw takes over the vocals with Tony Levin & Mike Baird as the rhythm section, while Mr. Edgar Winter, himself, plays the sax!
I Don't Live Today: Yummy version, with Schenker in a great mood! Assistance comes from vocalist Sebastian Bach, bassist Tony Franklin and drummer Eric Singer.
Hair Of The Dog: I love this song and I love Michael for lovin' it too! The team here gives renaissance to a monumental track: Paul Dianno (vocals), Phill Soussan (bass), Vinnie Appice (drums). Bravo!
Out In The Fields: A rather weak - for me - result for a strong song. Not bad, but you can't take your mind off the driving vibe of this Gary Moore tune. Maybe the production should be more 'vivid'? Gary Barden (vocals), Chuck Wright (bass) and Brett Chassen are on this one.
Politician: The perfect tune for watching Michael Schenker on stage in a full-smoked pub (you'd wish). A marvelous cover version, added even more respect to the original cut.
To cut a long story short, you'll enjoy this one - aware of all the original recordings or not. Still I doubt if there's any need for rating, since what can someone evaluate here? The originals, the guest musicians or - in particular - Michael Schenker himself? Gimme a break...