Another excellent release from the German maestro and his Fest.

Eighteen months after 'Resurrection' Michael Schenker Fest return with their sophomore album 'Revelation'. Unfortunately, the release was recorded under very sombre circumstances due to drummer Ted McKenna's sad passing. Original Michael Schenker Group drummer Simon Phillips was enlisted to help out, as was McAuley Schenker skinsman Bodo Schopf, thus still "keeping it in the family". The cover depicting Schenker on the cross with all the singers trying to get past soldiers to free him has also caused a fair amount of controversy.

Opener 'Rock Steady' is a mid-tempo tune on which all four vocalists (Gary Barden, Graham Bonnet, Robin McAuley and Doogie White) participate. I love the gang vocals during the chorus and Schenker delivers some neat solos. White adds a fine vocal to 'Under A Blood Red Sky' which is a fast-paced rocker (the first few bars sound like 'Armed And Ready: Part Two') and the mad axeman nails the guitar solo. McAuley screams his way through 'Silent Again' and Schenker plays sublimely on another fast-paced number. The production from Michael Voss is nice and clear.

The latest single 'Sleeping With The Light On' once again features all four vocalists and is a catchy mid-paced number. Bonnet screams his heart out during 'The Beast In The Shadows' and the rhythm section of bassist Chris Glen and Phillips/Schopf (I'm not sure who drums on what) is rock-solid, while Schenker's soloing is superb. The blonde bomber's riffing is brilliant on 'Behind The Smile' as is White's vocal, whereas its Barden who lays down a bluesy vocal during 'Crazy Daze'.

McAuley is a wonderful singer who doesn't disappoint on 'Lead You Astray' and Schenker's soloing is sublime. Next up is my favourite tune 'We Are The Voice' which features Ronnie Romero (Lords Of Black/Rainbow) on vocals and he sings majestically on this catchy tune – Schenker nails the solo. Barden is back during 'Headed For The Sun' and it's another fast-paced tune with Schenker soloing as if his life depended on it – Steve Mann adds some fine keyboards and rhythm guitar. 'Old Man' is another bluesy tune on which all singers add their dulcet tones and Metal Mickey's playing is once again top-notch.

'Still In The Fight' is a rocker where Bonnet adds a passionate vocal. The album ends via the instrumental 'Ascension' which is a typical Schenker workout with lots of melody and impeccable solos. This is another excellent release from the German maestro and his Fest.

Az Chaudhry