UFO

Into the U's we go and time to start it off with some British Heavy Metal. UFO has been one of the more underrated rock/metal bands to come out of the UK. Having formed in 1969 and still touring and releasing records today isn't something to scoff at. Formed in London by Pete Way, Phil Mogg, and Mick Bolton, UFO started out as somewhat of a space rock band. By 73 the band hasn't seen much success outside of Germany and Japan, they needed a new guitarist. After a short run with Larry Wallis, who would end up playing on the debut album from Motörhead, the band recruited Scorpions guitarist Micheal Schenker. Although Schenker was just 18 at the time, he was already an accomplished guitarist. By the time Schenker left in 78, the band had a minor hit with 'Lights Out' and were beginning to be recognized in America. Over the years the band has endured lineup changes and hiatuses, but they continue to play with original members Phil Mogg and Andy Parker. UFO has had quite a catalog, so I've dug a bit deeper and decided to go with 98's best of release 'Time To Rock: Best Of Singles A's and B's'. This is a 2 CD collection that spans the bands career and includes some live cuts. If you're not familiar with the band this is the perfect place to start.

I didn't get into UFO until a few years back. I was pulled in with songs like 'Lights Out' and 'Doctor Doctor'. The guitar work was always stellar and the band just seemed like they should be bigger than what they are. Yet somehow UFO tends to fly under the radar, pardon the pun, the band had some solid albums over the years and while sounding somewhat like some other Brit Rock bands, managed to carve out their own sound. Great band that deserves some more recognition.

Preview

Disc 1

Disc 2