Outlaw Man – I like the song idea, but the execution isn’t quite there for me. I don’t like the “I’m a rocker, I’m a rocker, I’m a rolling stone.” And the rest of the chorus. I do like the lyrics in the verses though. Love the slide guitar work. Overall I’d give it a 7.
Quicksilver Rider – I dig the instrumentation of the verses and the heavy pre-chorus. Again, for me, the chorus is just there; not good but not bad either. The solo by Michael is pretty good. I’d give it a 6.5.
Serenity – I don’t dig the intro. Love the moody, plodding riff. Kind of a different vibe for UFO which I welcome. Gives me an “Egypt (The Chains Are On)” feel. A different guitar tone in the solo, which builds nicely but doesn’t quite reach the promised climax. The outro soloing is better. 7.5
Deadman Walking – Another song that brings in unusual musical ideas. I like the inclusion of acoustic guitars. Really broadens the sound…but also drives home the idea that we need Paul Raymond to lay some tasty piano lines in the quieter moments. I really enjoyed Michaels solo in the middle. 8
Shadow Dancer – Maybe references classic UFO a little too much. Sounds like an outtake from Force It, just without the youthful vigor. 5
I gotta say, Phil isn’t really doing it for me. I can’t put a finger on it, but so far I’m not really enjoying his performances.
Someone’s Gonna Have to Pay – I remember this song being my favorite from the first listen. Yeah, love the bluesy honky-tonk romp mood. What the fuck is Phil singing about, now!
The middle bit is one of those “sit up take notice moments” I was talking about. Love the lead guitar work and Phil’s performance there is really good—actually this is the first song where I really enjoy Phil throughout. Great song! 9.5
Sea of Faith – I really like the clean guitar riff. It mixes well with the crunchy guitar when it joins in. Good, catchy, chorus (for a change). Yeah, the middle instrumental break is awesome. Another great song and good performance from Phil. 9
Fighting Man – Decent, not great, rocker. Michael’s solo nearly saves it…6
Perfect View – A great heavy Schenker riff. Wasn’t too sure about the contrast of the mellower pre-chorus and chorus at first, but it’s growing on me. I’m digging the lead guitar work throughout. 8
Crossing Over – Meh, no. 3.5
Hawaii – Throw away idea. Could have been developed into something nice… 2
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I’m not going to buy an album that I give an average of 6.5, but I may see if a few of these are available on Amazon for individual purchase.
I forgot that I’m scheduled to take a tour of the U of U stadium renovation this morning, so I’ll have to do my listen of Covenant later, if not tomorrow.