UFO-The Visitor (SPV) ****

The Visitor is the third UFO record with Vinnie Moore on guitar. By far, it’s their best one. The major improvement is here is the songwriting, or perhaps the songs are becoming more refined to the already established style. UFO is finally finding its groove, and the stability is finally stepping in.

Phill Mogg is singing great, the man has not lost any of his magic from the glory days. In fact, it’s great to see the band taking chances with the new material, and moving forward. It would’ve been too easy just to stick to your greatest hits. UFO is not a novelty act, and does not easily compromise. Having seen the band last year, the same can be said about the live performance. UFO is out there promoting the new songs alongside the classics.

The Visitor is a hard hitting record, but it also has very mellow parts. It’s a great musical balance which really makes the album enjoyable. The band appears to be very happy, and the music reflects it. Nothing is forced here. Anyone who enjoyed UFO’s past efforts, and can call themselves a fan, will easily adjust and understand what the band has to offer now.

UFO still maintains its classic sound, and stylistic uniqueness, but the forward thinking is what drives the band to be successful.

Mark Kadzielawa