'MSG'
O2 Academy, Sheffiled 19/12/2009
Review By Mick (the beard) Staley
This was a gig I was looking forward to but at the same time very apprehensive, as Mr Schenker's reputation for actually turning up is not good. I had a couple of things going for me though, the first was that I had an appointment with the Power Quest guys and I knew Steve and the rest would not let me down, and secondly, it was only day two of the tour so self abuse may not be at its peak.
Anyway doors were due to open at 7 and still not open at 7.30, the mutterings were going round the crowd. I was told by Steve from PQ that they will go on regardless. 7.45 doors open, PQ were hurridly rushed on stage by 8, unfortunately for them and us their sound was awful (deliberate?) and all five instruments blended into one with vocals coming and going, not a good way to show off your new lineup.
Just before an interview with PQ I caught some of FURY UK's set, and this was second time I had seen these guys and still, even though they are gatering a huge following, do nothing for me. They are technically good but I just dont get the spark from them that a band needs to get to the next level.
Next up MSG and yet again the wait, why we have to endure this bullshit everytime this guy is on a bill is beyond me, sooner or later people will not bother booking him, surely.
Half an hour later than he should be on stage MSG appear with original frontman Mr Gary Barden. No matter how much tortuous waiting we have to endure, the end product is always worth waiting for. Schenker with his characteristic head shake, makes the guitar sing and Barden is bang in the button with his vocals, all beit the odd note not reached anymore.
All the favourites were there, 'Armed and Ready', 'Attack of the Mad Axeman', 'Doctor Doctor', 'Ready to rock', from his career spanning UFO to MSG, we were treated to a veriatable feast., Gary Barden even got us all to sing 'We wish you a Merry Christmas'.
All in all a great night and the waiting a distant memory, until we are all daft enough to put ourselves through it again.
