Lights Out

by UFO

Overview

Despite a few generic moments, Lights Out is probably the best studio document of what elevated UFO above the '70s hard rock fray. Within a Euro-blues framework, the classic lineup that lasted from Phenomenon through Strangers in the Night incorporated challenging dynamics, epic balladry, and a more than occasional sensitivity. On Lights Out, all three of these traits come together in powerful fashion, most notably on the space rocker-cum-ballad "Love to Love," where a ridiculously heavy intro gives way to flourishing poetics. "Gettin' Ready" and an oddball Love cover, "Alone Again Or," also showcase the band's sensitive ambiguities, never compromising the group's overarching hard edge. Not enough can be said either about UFO's stand-out individual performances, particularly Phil Mogg's street level vocals, which no doubt greatly influenced Joe Elliot and Paul Di'Anno. Then, of course, there's the matter of Michael Schenker's deservedly lauded lead guitar. Expressive and bluesy with a tone nearing perfection, even the more pedestrian tunes are made worthwhile due to a Schenker solo. Lights Out holds up well; its subtleties are worth mentioning because the band always make it a point to rock hard, and the playing is always on. Almost completely overlooked stateside, Lights Out is a lost gem. ~ Matthew Kantor

Product Details

Release Date:	03/08/2024
Label:	Chrysalis Records
UPC:	0810098501309
Rank:	12644

Tracks

Disc 1

1. Too Hot To Handle
2. Just Another Suicide
3. Try Me
4. Lights Out
5. Gettin' Ready
6. Alone Again Or
7. Electric Phase
8. Love To Love

Disc 2

9. Lights Out [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
10. Gettin' Ready [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
11. Love To Love [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
12. On With The Action [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
13. Doctor Doctor [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
14. Try Me [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
15. Too Hot To Handle [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]

Disc 3

16. Out In The Street [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
17. This Kid's [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
18. Shoot Shoot [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
19. Rock Bottom [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
20. Let It Roll [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]
21. C'mon Everybody [Live at Roundhouse, London, 2nd April 1977]

Album Credits

Performance Credits

UFO   Primary Artist
Pete Way   Guitar (Bass),Bass
Andy Parker   Drums
Paul Raymond   Guitar,Vocals,Keyboards
Phil Mogg   Vocals,Lead Vocals
Michael Schenker   Guitar,Lead Guitar

Technical Credits

Pete Way   Composer
Alan MacLean   Composer
Lucy Jordache   Producer
Alan McMillan   Horn Arrangements,String Arrangements
Andy Parker   Composer
Paul Raymond   Composer
Dave Ling   Liner Notes
Phil Mogg   Composer
Michael Schenker   Composer
Bryan MacLean   Composer
Ron Nevison   Producer