BLAST FROM THE PAST BLUES WITH BRAGIN

UFO Strangers in the Night (1979) Chrysalis Records

Often referred to as “your favorite band’s favorite band,” London’s UFO just concluded a 50-year run as one of the most prolific yet underrated bands in the history of rock and roll. In my view, one of the great crimes in rock history is that UFO never enjoyed popular acclaim in the U.S. In the 1970s they were one of the most talented bands in the hard rock genre, and they were poised to break big in America. They toured across the U.S. in the fall of 1978, recording a half-dozen shows for their first live album Strangers in the Night , which was released in January of '79. Sadly, during post-production, German guitar prodigy Michael Schenker quit the band. Fans view his departure as key in explaining UFO’s struggles in the 1980s. Steve Harris of Iron Maiden, Nikki Sixx of Mötley Crüe, and Kirk Hammett of Metallica all claim UFO as a massive influence - particularly the Strangers album. So what makes it so special? First, the band was going on five years of writing, recording and touring; their chemistry and timing were near-perfect. Next, few bands played with the kinetic, frenetic energy of UFOor boasted such an exquisite guitarist. Not to mention the rhythm section - comprised of bassist Pete Way, percussionist Andy Parker and guitarist/keyboardist Paul Raymond - played with a groove that can't be taught. Plus, vocalist Phil Mogg’s voice was top-notch, and his banter between songs was animated and funny. Lastly, there is the production. For a live album recorded in 1978 on analog equipment, it's beyond comprehension how legendary producers Ron Nevison and Mike Clink got Strangers to sound so good. Packed with masterful performances of classics like "Rock Bottom," "Lights Out," "Only You Can Rock Me," "Natural Thing" and "Too Hot to Handle," it showcases a band on the precipice of greatness. Ah, what might have been had the mercurial Schenker elected to stay put. But alas, some meteors streak across the night sky but for a moment, before fading in intensity.

- Matt Alschbach

ALLY VENABLE Real Gone Ruf Records

Texas guitar phenomenon

Ally Venable returns with Real Gone, her fifth studio release. The album kicks off with the title track, a rocking tune that immediately showcases Venable’s guitar prowess. “Going Home” begins with a psychedelic vibe as she sings about returning to her roots. Venable cements her status as a guitar queen on “Justifyin’,” a tune that allows EJ Bedford to shine on the bass. Guitar virtuoso Joe Bonamassa joins the band for “Broken and Blue” and provides top-notch guitar work. “Don’t Lose Me” features solid drumming from Isaac Pulido as Venable and Bedford find a funky groove.

“Any Fool Should Know” offers a throwback with a 1950s feel while retaining Venable’s powerhouse vocals and guitar. Blues legend Buddy Guy comes in for a guest appearance on “Texas Louisiana” as he and Venable complement each other on vocals and guitar. A heavy rocking tune fits the aptly-titled “Kick Your Ass” as Venable sings about being mistreated and not tolerating it. A stripped-down acoustic guitar begins “Blues Is My Best Friend” before the full band kicks in and Venable lays down great electric guitar work. “Gone So Long” offers introspective lyrics to match melancholy guitar playing. Heavy guitar from Venable features on “Hold My Ground,” a song about sticking to your convictions. This album is a must have for any blues lover.

Paul Bragin