Michael Schenker Fest at Berklee Performance Center, Boston

by Matman

I have waited to see Michael Schenker since i was 14. Since i'm now 49 years old... that is a real long time!  I vowed never to get an MSG shirt unless it was at a concert.  As I waited nervously in my seat (in my just bought Michael Schenker Fest shirt) I was thinking what a long ride this has been.  As the lights dimmed and Michael hit the stage i and everyone in attendance rose to their feet to welcome Michael Schenker and his trip through his brilliant musical history.

For me the story of the night were the vocalists; Gary Barden, Graham Bonnet, Robin McAuley and Doogie White. Each vocalist came out with the band, performed at least four of their classics and a new onc from the just released album, RESURRECTION.  Each singer not only did 'their' songs total justice, but all looked, acted and sounded like they did during their respective era.  The coolest moments were when the three singers not doing the lead would come out and back up the other.  The unity and chemistry between the four was fun to watch and awesome to hear. 

Like the vocalists, the band all have history with Schenker.  Bassist Chris Glen was in MSG for the first four MSG albums, drummer Ted McKenna played on two of my favorite MSG albums and guitarist/keyboardist Steve Mann was part of the amazing McAuley Schenker Group.  All three were brilliant, keeping the music and show going and giving the singers and Schenker room to just let go. 

And now my thoughts on Michael Schenker! Holy Crap!!! Amazing and so worth the wait! He is by far the greatest guitar player to ever live; he plays with heart, soul and total aggression.  On stage you can't take your eyes off him as he crouches a bit, locks in and just lets go. 

The show lasted about 2 1/2 hours and featured 30 songs from his entire career; UFO, Scorpions, MSG and Temple Of Rock.  From the show opener Into The Arena to the finale of Light's Out, the band never lost focus, their energy or their commitment to put on the best show they could, and the best show is what they did. People who know me will know this comment means something... BEST CONCERT I EVER SAW! 

Michael Schenker may have had his issues in the past but he is a great place now.  For someone of his stature you would think that he would want the focus to be on him and him alone, but I think he understands that this is a show the fans want, need and expect.  In a time and era when some musicians are crippled by ego and are afraid to work with anyone as talented as they are, Michael Schenker is doing the opposite.  He is surrounding himself with the best and tonight in Boston provided the thousands in attendance the best! - www.michaelschenkerfest.com/

Opening the show was Boston based, Bad Marriage.  These guys had a big challenge, trying to win over a crowd waiting for the main event and guess what... they did.  Very 70's in their music and stage presence, Bad Marriage reminded me of late 1970's Areosmith, when in my opinion they were at their best.  I'm sorry that I didn't give them all my attention when they played, but I will be checking them out next time I can, and so should you.  Thank you guys for bringin' back the old school, best school!                                                  www.badmarriagemusic.com

Enjoy the pictures and if you get a chance to see Michael Schenker Fest, DO IT!!!