You Are Here
[SPV]

UFO are one of the most criminally underrated bands of all time, yet they continue to pump out their unfashionable brand of clever, crafty hard rock well into their fourth decade, showing no signs of slowing down. Thirty-five years after their AKA Records debut, they return with a rock-solid album in 'You Are Here', featuring a new lineup (This band has had more lineups than possibly any other band in history) and a renewed sense of purpose.

In this new lineup are guitarist Vinnie Moore, one of the better-known Shrapnel Records neoclassical shredders, and Jason Bonham, the offspring of one of the most celebrated hard rock drummers of all time. Both seem to provide a well-needed punch in the arm to a band whose last two albums just weren't very good. Moore in particular shines on 'You Are Here', playing with a style so far away from his earlier work that it's hard to believe it's the same person. His rhythm work is creatively catchy, and his solos are slinky and bluesy, yet still show his virtousity ("Black Cold Coffee" & "Wild One", in particular). Overall, Moore's performance strongly reminds me of Jason Becker's work on David Lee Roth's 'A Little Ain't Enough', with solos and fills that sound thought out but still retain an off the cuff feel. Jason Bonham plays solidly throughout as well, showing a creativity and groove that papa would be proud of.

The songwriting on 'You Are Here'is UFO's best since 1995's 'Walk On Water', and every song is solid. Although most of the album isn't heavy metal per se (There is a more laid-back and purposefully restrained tone to the entire album), there is enough heaviness here to satisfy most listeners, especially older fans. From the more rocking tunes like "When Daylight Goes To Town", "Black Cold Coffee", and "The Wild One" to the balladry of "Slipping Away" and "Baby Blue", Mogg and company show that they haven't lost their ability to write catchy, thoughtful and meaningful tunes.

I haven't heard singer Phil Mogg sound this good in many years. While he has never been a great singer by most people's standards, here he sounds richer and more focused than he ever has. His lack of range doesn't stop him from turning in a strong performance. His lyrics are much better, as well.

Tommy Newton's production on 'You Are Here' sounds completely unmodern, yet absolutely perfect for the music. Like the music itself, there is an understated tone to the record, with a warmth and depth lacking in much of today's hard rock. The mix is very clear and clean, with a good amount of audible bass guitar. The guitars tones are killer, and the drums are solid and punchy without overpowering the rest of the instruments.

This is easily the best UFO album since 'Walk On Water', and it might be my favorite UFO album since 'Obsession' (Nothing can beat 'Lights Out'). This probably won't win over too many new fans of the band, but it is a more than worthy addition to the UFO catalog. It is also a painful reminder that hardly anybody makes this kind of good 'ol hard rock nowadays.