The Michael Schenker Group: Be Aware of Scorpions

Be Aware of Scorpions, the title of the latest Michael Schenker Group offering, seems to have fueled speculation that there may be some sort of deep-seeded rift between Michael and the now-legendary band he co-founded with his brother Rudolph over 30 years ago. Just as prevalent are the rumors that the album’s title suggests that Michael plans to rejoin the Scorpions in the near future. Needless to say, both schools of thought completely miss the mark. Quite simply, the album’s title actually came from a jestful, attention-getting quip made by the band’s photographer during the BAOS photo sessions which were shot in Schenker’s backyard garden in Arizona. While the phrase certainly makes for an interesting album title, it’s also good sound advice for anyone living in that general region of the U.S.

Michael Schenker is certainly no stranger to scorpions, be it the stinging arachnid or the rock and roll type, but neither is he a stranger when it comes to making great guitar-oriented rock records. Over the course of his career, the German guitar virtuoso has released over 30 albums with the likes of the Scorpions, UFO, various incarnations of the Michael Schenker Group and his own solo endeavors. However, Schenker’s last two outings, the instrumental Dreams and Expressions and Adventures of the Imagination, were uncharacteristically uninspired, leaving one to wonder if his creative well had finally run dry. Be Aware of Scorpions will ultimately prove that counting Michael Schenker out is never in order.

There are two reasons why this album is probably the most accessible MSG release ever committed to disc. First, the approach of the record harkens back to the stripped down, ’70s hard rock style that typified much of MSG’s early ’80s albums. Secondly, there seems to be a concerted effort to emphasize the strength of the songs themselves instead of totally showcasing the mind-boggling chops of Michael Schenker. His dynamic fretboard flourishes are still prominent throughout the record, especially on signature tracks like “Because I Can” and “Blinded By Technology”, but absent is his propensity for throwing gobs of licks into every space available (or unavailable), giving the record a more cohesive feel. Also worthy of mention is vocalist Chris Logan. Although a newcomer to the world of bigtime rock, Logan’s performance rivals that of even the most seasoned professional, with pipes that are both strong and emotive (think Paul Rodgers (Bad Company) coupled with the power of Sammy Hagar), effortlessly propelling each track with confidence and enthusiasm. Logan’s haunting, layered harmony work on “Fallen the Love” rank as one of the most impressive highlights of the album.

As superb an effort as Be Aware of Scorpions is, its most surprising trait is that it introduces MSG fans to a somewhat kinder, gentler Michael Schenker. Not that he compromises his guitar playing in any way. In any studio situation Schenker is always fiery, impressive and ultimately influential. But here he hints at an unselfishness that not only allows each song to stand on its own merits, but also allows other members of the band to shine, which goes a long way in making the Michael Schenker Group something to be very aware of in the future.