“Stop Breaking Down”, “Stranger In Town”, and “Villains & Thieves” kill stone dead any fears you may have of a dip anywhere on this album. Despite understandably drawing at times on past glories The Visitor is an experience that is totally devoid of even a hint of tiredness anywhere within it. This is fresh, and alive, and adds another wedge of quality to the bands already huge legacy.
The footstomping “Hell Driver” will have you driving way too fast with your boot to the floor. Vinnie delivers time and again with just the right amount of firepower. His superb solo on this one being a great example. You really don’t want this track to fade out, and are left grateful that UFO have done anything but themselves.
When “Stop Breaking Down” powers in, with its faint shades of Lizzy, and Phil Mogg takes hold of the vocals it is clear that the collective enthusiasm, trademark energy, and legendary drive are all still very much alive. The excellent “Rock Ready” revisits the vibe of “Saving Me” with a smouldering southern feel that UFO carry more than convincingly.
A funky blues-rocking “Living Proof” and “Can’t Buy A Thrill” ensure a rock solid mid-section to the set. “Foresaken” slows it all down whilst showcasing Phil Mogg’s timeless vocals.
“Stranger In Town” is definitely one of those tracks that ‘just had to work live’. Well this one does, so much so, that I am left in eager anticipation of seeing them add it into their already bursting repertoire soon.
The Visitor (Steamhammer/SPV) is an album that keeps the name of UFO flying high. Okay, at times it leans back on the eighties but this is no mere nostalgia trip. It still moves the whole UFO juggernaught forward with an album that is all the richer for the maturity that it shows. It’s gritty, classy, classic rock and it just doesn’t miss a trick.
Catch up on the band, the album, and forthcoming live dates by calling on their official website.
Article comments
1 - Triniman
This is a terrific new album, showing the band not following trends and sounding just like themselves, classic blues-influenced hard rock. Now, if they would only get off their butts and do some extensive touring, perhaps on a double-bill with Blue Oyster Cult?
2 - Jeff
Hi Triniman
Good to hear from you and thanks for reading this. Glad you like the album - 'not following trends and sounding just like themselves, classic blues-influenced hard rock.' - spot on !
thanks again , Jeff
3 - Paul Roy
Excellent review Jeff. I haven't heard the album yet, but now I am intrigued. Last one I got was The Monkey Puzzle and the Showtime DVD is also awesome. These guys are sounding better than ever with Vinnie Moore on guitar and, like you said, Phil Mogg is sounding better than ever.