Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy 12" Vinyl LP Album

Michael Schenker Group's 1983 album "Built to Destroy" encapsulates the dynamic shift in 1980s rock. Melding hard rock and metal, the LP, produced by MSG and Louis Austin, showcases Schenker's guitar virtuosity. With tracks like "Rock My Nights Away" and "Captain Nemo" it contributes to the era's evolving sound. The album's enduring influence lies in its production quality and cultural impact, making it a timeless gem in rock history.

High Resolution Photo of Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy  

"Built to Destroy" Album Description:

In the dynamic realm of 1980s rock music, the Michael Schenker Group's (MSG) "Built to Destroy" stands out as a testament to the era's prolific creativity and evolving soundscapes. Released in 1983, this 12" Vinyl LP Album not only showcased the musical prowess of the band but also contributed significantly to the changing face of rock during that time period.

Musical Landscape of the 1980s: A Shifting Paradigm

The early 1980s witnessed a transformative period in the music industry, with the rock genre undergoing various experiments and fusions. Michael Schenker Group, led by the iconic German guitarist Michael Schenker, played a crucial role in shaping the sonic landscape. "Built to Destroy" emerged during a time when rock was diversifying, embracing elements of hard rock, metal, and melodic tunes.

Production and Mixing Mastery: MSG and Louis Austin Collaboration

One of the defining features of "Built to Destroy" lies in its production and mixing, skillfully executed by MSG and Louis Austin. This collaboration marked a pivotal moment in the band's discography, showcasing a refined and polished sound that resonated with the evolving tastes of the audience. Louis Austin's contribution added a layer of sophistication to the album, elevating the listening experience.

Musical Highlights: A Journey Through "Built to Destroy"

The album opens with the powerful "Rock My Nights Away," setting the tone for an energetic musical journey. Tracks like "Captain Nemo" a demonstrate Schenker's exceptional guitar work, combining intricate solos with memorable melodies. The versatility of the album is evident in the bluesy undertones of "Red Sky" and the anthemic quality of "Still Love That Little Devil."

Cultural Impact: Beyond the Sound Waves

"Built to Destroy" not only contributed to the evolving musical scene but also reflected the cultural shifts of the time. The album's cover art, featuring a futuristic warrior with a guitar as a weapon, encapsulated the spirit of rebellion and resilience that defined the 1980s.

Collector Notes:

The model on the front cover of the Michael Schenker Group's "Built to Destroy" is Caroline Dodd. She was a British fashion model who appeared in many magazines and advertising campaigns in the 1980s. She is also known for her work as a photographer and filmmaker.

Music Genre:

German Hard Rock, Heavy Metal

Album Production Information:

Produced and mixed by MSG and Louis Austin

Louis Austin

Louis Austin, the renowned sound engineer, played a pivotal role in shaping the sonic landscape during a crucial period in the history of music production. Born 1941, in London, Austin's career spanned from the 1960s to the 1980s, aligning with a transformative era in the music industry.

  Read more...

During the 1960s, the music scene witnessed a significant shift marked by the rise of iconic bands like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Who. Louis Austin entered the scene as a sound engineer, contributing his expertise to numerous groundbreaking recordings. His technical proficiency and innovative approaches to sound engineering had a profound impact on the quality and depth of music produced during this time.

One of Austin's notable contributions was his work with The Beatles during the recording sessions of the legendary album "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" in 1967. His meticulous attention to detail and experimentation with studio techniques helped create the album's distinctive sound, earning him recognition for his role in shaping the psychedelic and avant-garde elements present in the tracks.

Beyond The Beatles, Louis Austin collaborated with a diverse range of artists, showcasing his versatility as a sound engineer. His work extended to genres such as rock, blues, and folk, leaving an indelible mark on the sonic landscape of the 1970s. As the music industry evolved, so did Austin's approach to sound engineering, adapting to new technologies and pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the studio.

In the 1980s, Louis Austin's influence continued to resonate as he embraced emerging digital technologies in the recording process. His ability to seamlessly integrate analog and digital elements showcased his adaptability and forward-thinking mindset.

Record Label Information:

Chrysalis 205 651 (205651)

Media Format:

12" Vinyl LP  Gramophone Record
Album weight: 210 gram 

Year and Country:

1983 Made in EEC
Band Members and Musicians on: Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Michael Schenker

    Michael Schenker, a renowned guitarist from Germany, is widely recognized for his exceptional skills and contributions to the world of rock and metal music. Born on January 10, 1955, in Sarstedt, Germany, Michael grew up in a family of musicians, with his father playing the violin and his mother singing opera. This musical environment had a profound influence on Michael's development as a musician.

      Read more...

    At the age of 15, Michael Schenker gained prominence when he joined the Scorpions, a popular German rock band, in 1970. His exceptional guitar skills and unique style quickly made him stand out. Michael's time with the Scorpions led to the release of their debut album, "Lonesome Crow", in 1972, showcasing his incredible talent at a young age.

    However, it was with the British rock band UFO that Michael Schenker truly made his mark on the international music scene. He joined UFO in 1973 and became a key member of the band. His guitar work on albums like "Phenomenon" (1974), "Force It" (1975), and "No Heavy Petting" (1976) showcased his versatility and melodic sensibilities, earning him recognition as one of the most influential guitarists of the era.

    In 1978, Michael Schenker left UFO to form his own band, the Michael Schenker Group (MSG) . The band's self-titled debut album, released in 1980, received critical acclaim and further established Michael as a virtuoso guitarist. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, MSG released a series of successful albums, including "Assault Attack" (1982) and "Perfect Timing" (1987), solidifying Michael's reputation as a leading figure in the world of rock and metal.

    While pursuing his solo career with MSG, Michael Schenker maintained a connection with his former bands. He rejoined the Scorpions briefly in the early 1990s, contributing to their albums "Crazy World" (1990) and "Face the Heat" (1993). However, due to creative differences and personal reasons, he departed from the Scorpions once again.

    Michael's guitar playing style is characterized by his impressive technical ability and his incorporation of neoclassical elements, blending melodic hooks with intricate solos. He has been a significant influence on subsequent generations of guitarists and played a pivotal role in the development of the neoclassical metal genre.

    Over the years, Michael Schenker has continued to release albums and tour extensively, captivating audiences worldwide with his electrifying performances. His discography includes notable releases such as "Bridge the Gap" (2013) and "Resurrection" (2018), featuring collaborations with prominent musicians and showcasing his evolution as an artist.

    - Guitars
  • Gary Barden - Lead Vocals
  • Chris Glen - Bass
  • Ted McKenna - Drummer

    Edward McKenna Edward McKenna was a Scottish drummer who played with The Sensational Alex Harvey Band, Rory Gallagher ,The Greg Lake Band, and The Michael Schenker Group. He also toured with Ian Gillan for a short period of time in 1990, alongside fellow former SAHB member, bassist Chris Glen. He lectured in Applied Arts at North Glasgow College from 1996–2011. (Source; wikipedia)

  • Andy Nye - Keyboards
Track Listing of: Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy

The Song/tracks on "Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy " are

    Side One:
  • Rock my Nights Away
  • I'm Gonna Make You Mine
  • The Dogs of War
  • Systems Failing
  • Captain Nemo
    Side Two:
  • Still Love That Little Devil
  • Red Sky
  • Time Waits (For No One)
  • Walk The Stage
Album cover photos of : Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy
Photo of Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy Album's Front Cover 
High Resolution Photo of Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy  
Photo of Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy Album's Back Cover  
High Resolution Photo of Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy  
Close-up Photo of Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy Record Label 
High Resolution Photo of Michael Schenker Group Built to Destroy  

 

Index of MICHAEL SCHENKER Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

The Michael Schenker Group (MSG) is a British rock band formed in 1979 by German guitar player Michael Schenker. Schenker is best known for his work as a guitarist with the band UFO, but left the band to form the Michael Schenker Group.

The band's first lineup consisted of Schenker on guitar, Gary Barden on vocals, Chris Glen on bass, and Cozy Powell on drums. This lineup released the band's debut album, "The Michael Schenker Group," in 1980. The album featured the hit single "Armed and Ready" and was a commercial success.

Throughout the 1980s, the band went through several lineup changes, with Schenker being the only consistent member. Despite these changes, the band continued to release albums and tour extensively. Some of their most notable albums from this era include "Assault Attack" (1982) and "Built to Destroy" (1983).

Michael Schenker Group - Assault Attack 12" LP
MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP - Assault Attack

Chrysalis 205 094 , 1982 , Europe

The Michael Schenker Group's "Assault Attack" (1982) made a distinct mark in the early '80s rock scene. With vocalist Graham Bonnet and producer Martin Birch, the album, recorded in France, marked a departure towards a heavier sound. Despite not matching earlier commercial success, it remains a significant testament to the evolving musical landscape of its time, blending powerful vocals and intense guitar riffs.

Show Details
Michael Schenker Group - Built to Destroy 12" LP
MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP - Built to Destroy LP

Chrysalis 205 651 (205651) , 1983 , EEC

Michael Schenker Group's 1983 album "Built to Destroy" encapsulates the dynamic shift in 1980s rock. Melding hard rock and metal, the LP, produced by MSG and Louis Austin, showcases Schenker's guitar virtuosity. With tracks like "Rock My Nights Away" and "Captain Nemo" it contributes to the era's evolving sound. The album's enduring influence lies in its production quality and cultural impact, making it a timeless gem in rock history.

Show Details
Michael Schenker Group - Self-titled
Michael Schenker Group - Self-titled

 

The Michael Schenker Group's eponymous debut, released in September 1980, significantly influenced the hard rock genre during the dynamic late '70s and early '80s. Fueled by Michael Schenker's exceptional guitar skills, the album, available on vinyl LP, showcased a diverse range of tracks, contributing to the evolving sound of hard rock. Its enduring impact and distinctive production mark it as a pivotal release in rock music history.

Show Details
Michael Schenker Group -  One Night at Budokan
Thumbnail Of Michael Schenker Group -  One Night at Budokan album front cover

Chrysalis 301 927 , 1981 , Germany / Netherlands

"MSG Michael Schenker Group's 'One Night at Budokan' (1982) encapsulates the peak of 1980s rock and metal. Produced by T.Leo Sato and Hiro Kadoma, engineered by Soiji Okumura and David Wooley, the live recording at Tokyo Budokan showcases virtuosity. Yukio Maehara's design and Koichira Hiki, Kazumura Yoshikawa's photography enhance the visual narrative. A sonic journey through time, this iconic 2LP 12" vinyl immortalizes a historic night in music."

Learn more
Michael Schenker Group - Perfect Timing
MICHAEL SCHENKER GROUP - Perfect Timing

EMI Electrola 1C 064-7 48346 , 1987 , Germany

"Perfect Timing," the inaugural album by the McAuley Schenker Group, marks the initial synergy between iconic guitarist Michael Schenker and vocalist Robin McAuley. Released on 12" Vinyl LP, this 1987 masterpiece encapsulates a musical era characterized by dynamic collaborations. With its fusion of Schenker's legendary guitar prowess and McAuley's captivating vocals, the album makes an indelible contribution to the period's rock landscape, solidifying its significance within the context of the late '80s.

Show Details
Michael Schenker Group - Rock Will Never Die  Rock Will Never Die
Rock Will Never Die

Chrysalis 206 348, 1984 , Netherlands / Europe

"MSG Michael Schenker Group - Rock Will Never Die" is a live rock album recorded in 1983 at Hammersmith Odeon, London. Produced by Jack Douglas and others, its sonic brilliance is heightened by engineers James Ball and Gray Russell. Capturing the essence of '80s rock, the album's visual identity, crafted by Martin Brown, and cover photography by Fin Costello and Justin Thomas, complement the musical journey. A timeless classic, it resonates with the enduring spirit of live performances.

Show Details
McAuley Schenker Group -  Save Yourself ( Picture Disc )
Thumbnail Of Save Yourself ( Picture Disc) album front cover

EMI Electrola , 1989 , Europe

The MCAULEY SCHENKER GROUP's "Save Yourself PD Picture Disc" epitomizes the late '80s and early '90s music scene. Produced by Frank Filipetti, the shaped picture disc, adorned with Annamaria Di Santo's photo, stands as a testament to creative innovation. It captures the era's spirit, blending diverse genres and pushing artistic boundaries. This multi-sensory experience reflects a dynamic period in European music history, where sound and visuals harmoniously intertwine.

Learn more