Michael Schenker Fest Live CD & DVD Box Set

Having witnessed firsthand his continued prowess on stage in early 2016, the release on CD and full gig DVD of Michael Schenker Fest from the Tokyo International Forum takes the experience the German provides to the next level and underlines what is sure to become a legendary show.

There have been more than a few bumps in the road since Schenker memorably performed with MSG at The Budokan thirty-five years ago. Yet the genuine warmth with which he introduces former front men Graham Bonnet, Robin McAuley and Gary Barden adds more than a hint of nostalgia for those long gone ‘good old days’, when each and every one of these guys were at their vocal peak.

This isn’t to say that any of them are past it: far from it. Bonnet is in fine form, ripping the heart out of Assault Attack with a gusto that is quite astonishing. Barden’s outstanding performances of the opening Attack of the Mad Axeman and Armed and Ready are simply joyous to both listen to and see. As for the power McCauley injects into both This is My Heart and a phenomenal Rock Bottom borders on the inspirational. When all three come together during Doctor Doctor to close, there is a real feeling of euphoria that bleeds from the ovation they all receive.

The DVD is beautifully shot, the close ups giving an intimacy to the majesty of Schenker’s control and free-for-all stylistic combinations are quite breathtaking, whereas the 5.1 sound – particularly with the boom box switched to full – really makes Steve Mann’s additional guitars and keys, Chris Glenn’s bass virtuosity and  Ted McKenna’s thumping drumming really come alive. The sound check bonus also adds an interesting aside, whereas the Slide Show truly captures the raw feelings of the gig.

This a powerful, emotion fuelled performance that sees the Tokyo faithful lapping up each and every chord in a manner only they can. It is also a collection of songs both in audio and visual that’s sure to have even the most reluctant up off their backsides and thrashing away like demons.

Magnificent stuff, indeed and an extraordinary gift of a production.

Michael Schenker Fest Live

Number of Discs: 3

Format: Box set, Live

Label: Inakustik

24 March, 2017

Track Listings:

CD Disc: 1

1. Intro: Searching For Freedom
2. Into the Arena
3. Attack of the Mad Axeman
4. Victim of Illusion
5. Cry for the Nations
6. Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
7. Armed and Ready
8. Coast to Coast
9. Assault Attack
10. Desert Song
11. Dancer

CD Disc: 2

1. Captain Nemo
2. This Is My Heart
3. Save Yourself
4. Love Is Not A Game
5. Shoot Shoot
6. Rock Bottom
7. Doctor Doctor

Disc: 3 DVD

1. Intro: Searching For Freedom
2. Into the Arena
3. Attack of the Mad Axeman
4. Victim of Illusion
5. Cry for the Nations
6. Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
7. Armed and Ready
8. Coast to Coast
9. Assault Attack
10. Desert Song
11. Dancer
12. Captain Nemo
13. This Is My Heart
14. Save Yourself
15. Love Is Not A Game
16. Shoot Shoot
17. Rock Bottom
18. Doctor Doctor