UFO - OBSESSION (with Michael Schenker) 12" Vinyl LP Album

Obsession, UFO's 1978 release, wasn't just another album. It was a culmination, a boiling point, the last gasp of a band on the edge with Michael Schenker's fiery guitar leading the charge. By this point, Schenker had already made a name for himself, flitting between UFO and the Scorpions, leaving a trail of scorched earth wherever he landed. His style was raw, emotional, and unpredictable; a perfect fit for UFO's brand of hard rock that was always teetering on the brink of chaos.

Obsession wasn't a departure from UFO's sound, but it was a refinement. The band had always been a mix of heavy riffs and soaring melodies, but on this album, they seemed to find a perfect balance. The songs were tighter, the production crisper, and Schenker's playing was more focused than ever before. It was as if the band knew this was their last chance to make a statement with their prodigal son, and they were determined to go out with a bang.

The album opens with "Only You Can Rock Me," a classic UFO anthem that perfectly encapsulates the band's sound. It's got a driving rhythm, a catchy chorus, and Schenker's guitar solos are nothing short of incendiary. From there, the album dives into deeper cuts like "Pack It Up (And Go)" and "Lookin' Out for No. 1," showcasing the band's versatility. They could rock hard, but they could also slow things down and deliver a ballad with just as much intensity.

Of course, it wouldn't be a UFO album without some controversy. The band had always been known for their volatile relationships, and Obsession was no exception. Rumors swirled about Schenker's commitment to the band, and his erratic behavior only fueled the fire. It was clear that this was a band on the verge of implosion, and the tension was palpable in the music.

Despite the turmoil, Obsession was a triumph. The band had enlisted producer Ron Nevison, who had previously worked with Bad Company and Led Zeppelin, to help them capture their raw energy in the studio. They recorded the album at the legendary Château d'Hérouville in France, a location that had seen its fair share of rock and roll debauchery. The result was an album that was both polished and raw, a testament to the band's talent and their volatile chemistry.

Obsession may have been the end of an era for UFO, but it was also a high point. It showcased a band at the peak of their powers, with Michael Schenker delivering some of his most inspired playing. It was a fitting farewell to a guitarist who had helped define the sound of UFO, and it remains a classic album that captures the essence of a band that was always on the edge.