5 year old daughter has been singing a tune this evening.
I knew what it was but not sure where she had heard it from. It is the Friday wake up song on my iPad alarm.
She keeps repeating the intro to this Michael Schenker song…and pretty accurately too! Proud!
Anyone who works out with their headphones knows how awesome it is when you get a big lift from your favorite song. Or hearing a cool tune you would have never picked shuffle through on your picturesque jog… With 1000s of songs on my iPod I almost always shuffle.
I’ve always thought it would be cool, interesting, perhaps even motivating to write about each playlist and the music’s effect on myself and the workout. Then I thought that might be kind of boring. Then I thought, “Yeah,” I was right…on both counts. 
Really just another chance to talk about music!
Feb. 14 & 17
3 mile runs
Michael Schenker’s, “Bridge the Gap.”
“Neptune Rising”
“Where the Wild Winds Blow”
“Horizons”
“Lord of the Lost and Lonely”
“Rock N Roll Symphony”
“To Live For the King”
“Land of Thunder”
“Temple of the Holy”
“Shine On”
“Bridges We Have Burned”
“Because You Lied”
“Black Moon Rising”
“Dance for the Piper”
“Faith” w Don Dokken, vocals
If you have read any of my previous “Run Playlist,” entries you know I shuffle through my workouts…almost exclusively! I rarely listen to one album straight through.
Another thing I hardly ever do any more is buy CDs. Sure songs here and there, but, not many full CDs anymore. However, I recently received in the mail Michael Schenker’s, “Bridge the Gap.”
With the new piece of ear candy in tow I turned off the shuffle feature and went to town dissecting my new sonorous treasure. My last two runs in fact were entirely devoted to the German guitarist’s newest release.
I won’t give the album a full review here cause it is just too early. I will share my first impressions, however.
GREAT!
Great production, great sound, heavy well composed songs, great vocals(not always a trademark of MSG music) and of course great guitar work. In fact Michael has never sounded better. Part of it is the production of the music. I also think part if it is Schenker seems to be enjoying life as much as ever. Props!!
A couple other quick hits…
-The keyboards(Wayne Findlay) are integrated really well on this disc. Perhaps even a sonic tribute to the recently passed Jon Lord of Deep Purple?
– Doogie White easily slides to the top of the class regarding Schenker vocalists over the years. Then immediately has to kind of battle it out to hold serve with Don Dokken who also sounds great on the bonus track, “Faith.” Major Kudos to Doogie on this disc and recent tours, sounds great!
-Dokken may be one of the top vocalists to work with Schenker. On the flip side Michael easily becomes the best guitarist to work with Dokken. Sorry to George Lynch fans. He’s a good dude and pretty good player just not even close to the same league as Schenker.
– The song format of this disc may lead to a better response from the average fan as some of Schenker’s recent music has been sort of through composed super-works. Most music fans are accustomed to block songs for easy digesting. Personally I liked when he stepped out of the box a bit. Even naming the songs on his MS 2000 disc the by the spelling of the CD title, “Dreams & Expressions.”
1 D
2 R
3 E
4 A
5 M
6 S
7 A
8 N
9 D
10 E
11 X
12 P
13 R
14 E
15 S
16 S
17 I
18 O
19 N
20 S
Bottom line- check out, “Bridge the Gap,” if you are a fan you won’t regret it!
Check out previous Run Playlist Posts.
This past Saturday night, legendary rock/metal guitarist once again brought his Flying V’s to San Diego. This time out in the sticks a bit to the Ramona Main Stage.
Seeing Schenker, one of my earliest and greatest musical influences, is always special and never a let down. The man can play! Plus, in the ‘stranger than fiction’ category, my old pal, San Diegan, Wayne Findlay, now tours and records with the band as keyboardist/guitarist.
BTW happy belated Birthdays to Michael and Wayne, both January 10 babies!
It’s always easy to review a Schenker show….masterful guitar work, great sound, energetic band. This show lived up to all! Only drawback…the stage was too low! Since they set up tables you can’t really get to the front and see Michael’s hands! Ramona MainStage is a cool venue and I recommend you get up there as they have some great acts coming though in an intimate venue….but, they either need to raise the stage a bit or clear out the tables and let a rock n roll show happen! I know some of the aging rockers now days like to get a table and relax and watch a show, but c’mon rock n roll is rock n roll!!!! You’re past selves would have kicked those walkers out from under your present selves and you know it!
Another oddity at Schenker shows… I am always surprised how much the crowd seems to know the UFO songs over his solo work. Maybe because I am a bit younger than the average fan…lol! Love the UFO stuff but I was raised on his first four solo albums and always want to hear more of those songs! This show did replace a few of the UFO tunes from recent tours with the aforementioned. Even played Assault Attack from the likewise titled 80s album. One of my top five albums All Time!
Since I was not able to find the current tour setlist any where beforehand thought I would do my best to represent the San Diego show here.
Michael Schenker, Bridge the Gap Setlist, Jan. 11, 2014 San Diego
Neptune Rising*
Rock My Nights Away
Cry for the Nations
Let Sleeping Dogs Lie
Assault Attack
Lovedrive
Another Piece of Meat
Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead
Attack of the Mad Axeman
Where the Wild Winds Blow*
Horizons*
Shoot Shoot
Let it Roll
Lights Out
Rock Bottom
Encore
Into the Arena
Armed and Ready
Doctor Doctor
*Since I hadn’t had a chance to hear the brand new album, “Bridge the Gap,” I estimated these titles as best I could.
This is an interesting idea that has been floating around the internet for a few weeks. The possibility of guitar great, Michael Schenker teaming up with vocalist Don Dokken on some sort of project.
Schenker a guitar legend has never really had a ‘great’ singer in his solo work. He has always had kind of wanna be rockers who were ‘good enough.’ If this did happen, Don Dokken would easily be the best vocalist to work with Schenker. He might also be the biggest diva. This is what leads me to believe it might not happen.
Schenker tours relentlessly, year round. He has turned down huge acts to do his own thing. Aerosmith, Ozzy and the Rolling Stones to name a few. His reasons for turning them down are that he needed to stay in his own skin and not join a media circus with which the aforementioned bands all are deeply intertwined. Don Dokken doesn’t seem like the best personality fit, but, he does not have the mega status of these other acts.
One thing for sure…I would want to hear the project.
Additional posts on Michael Schenker
Here is one for the category..”I never knew”
I have always heard that Michael Schenker turned down a stint with Ozzy Osbourne but it appears there were several other suitors who he gave the cold shoulder, as well.
I have been a Michael Schenker fan for 30 years plus. He has been one of my biggest influences.
Michael is one of those elite guitarists like Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai, Stevie Ray Vaughan etc. Axemen of different styles that absolutely command their guitars. Guitarists that are known for spending incredible amounts of hours developing their craft to the point where every note displays their musical bidding.
Michael Schenker is very much a man on path. He is a man who has had to face many demons including substance abuse. One thing that you have to admire is that he has always seemed to know his path or perhaps where is path shouldn’t lie.
For that reason he has turned down some of the worlds biggest bands such as the Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, Ozzy Osbourne, Whitesnake and I am sure countless others that have sought his 6 string, Flying V services. Of Ozzy and the Rolling Stones I have heard him say he would be dead if he joined their ranks. Amazing insights from a man who has seemed to have troubles controlling his life the way he does his guitar.
Obviously he chose wisely. Schenker has been tirelessly recording and touring the world over the years. He has a huge cult following around the world from fans who have known him as a founding member of the Scorpions, bringing the band UFO to new heights and as a solo artist.
Click here to hear/see one of Michael Schenker’s great instrumental compositions, “Into the Arena”
Michael Schenker Group Concert Setlist at Saint Rocke, Hermosa Beach on March 20, 2012 | setlist.fm.
UPDATE: APRIL 25, Check this link for the most up to date post on MSG Setlists
http://www.setlist.fm/setlists/michael-schenker-group-7bd6aa68.html
Anyone who works out with their headphones knows how awesome it is when you get a big lift from your favorite song. Or hearing a cool tune you would have never picked shuffle through on your picturesque jog… With 1000s of songs on my iPod I almost always shuffle.
I’ve always thought it would be cool, interesting, perhaps even motivating to write about each playlist and the music’s effect on myself and the workout. Then I thought that might be kind of boring. Then I thought, “Yeah,” I was right…on both counts.
Really just another chance to talk about music!
January 30, 2014
3 Mile Run
..And then there’s days when it is just you against yourself and no music is going to take you to the next level. That was this day’s run.
“Seasons of Madness,” -Catharsis
“Gimme Your Love,” -Michael Schenker
“Convoy,” -C. W. McCall
“Already Gone,” -Eagles
“Pieces De Clavecin Book 2, Les Moissonneurs,” F. Couperin, perf. John Williams
“The Struggle Within,” -Metallica
“Serpens Cauda,” -Tony MacAlpine
“Aftershock,” -Van Halen
“Brother John,” -Blues Traveler
“See You in Hell,” Yngwie J. Malmsteen
“Heroes End,” -Judas Priest
“Octopus’s Garden,” -Beatles
“I Will Remember,” – Queensryche
There was some good music on this playlist, but, as mentioned, there are days when the struggle is truly within…to steal the Metallica title. Body just wasn’t responding, maybe it had to do with the leg weights I lifted the day before.
To the music…
If you never heard Catharsis you aren’t alone. They were a local San Diego band that just missed it…and thats too bad cause they were really good, progressive and heavy and just getting started. Anyway you might know the guitarist, Scott Fox. He is a good friend and my musical partner in the Slayen & Fox guitar duo. If you ever get a chance look up Catharsis(make sure it was the SD band) and give them a listen.
Yes, “Convoy,” is the silly novelty song from the 1970’s. You know during the CB radio days? Smokey & The Bandit? Guess I am dating myself.
Highlight of this playlist was Tony MacAlpine. Known somewhat as an Yngwie clone from the 80’s Tony has been an afterthought in my listing all these years since. Recently I had the chance to see him play on “that Metal Show.” It definitely renewed my interest enough to head over to the fruit stand and download a couple tunes of his. “Serpens Cauda,” being the song that captured my ear the most.
Lowlights, “Octopus’s Garden,” just not a running song. Also, Yngwie’s, “See you in Hell.” Definitely not one his better efforts. The guitar licks are OK its just a little too cheesy.
Check out previous Run Playlist Posts.
Anyone who works out with their headphones knows how awesome it is when you get a big lift from your favorite song. Or hearing a cool tune you would have never picked shuffle through on your picturesque jog… With 1000s of songs on my iPod I almost always shuffle.
I’ve always thought it would be cool, interesting, perhaps even motivating to write about each playlist and the music’s effect on myself and the workout. Then I thought that might be kind of boring. Then I thought, “Yeah,” I was right…on both counts.
Really just another chance to talk about music!
January 26, 2014
5 Mile Run
“China Girl,” David Bowie
“I’ll Be Waiting,” -Adele
“Angel of Avalon,” -Michael Schenker
“Harp Partita, BWV 1006A Preludium,” -JS Bach, perf. Julian Bream
“Somebody Stole My Guitar,” -Deep Purple
“Heathens From the North,” -Yngwie J. Malmsteen
“Night of the Long Knives,” -AC/DC
“Early Morning Rain,” Gordon Lightfoot
“Harp Partita, BWV 1006A Gavotte En Rondeau,” -JS Bach, perf. Julian Bream
“Say What You Will,” -Fastway
“Carnies,” -Rush
“Prelude,” – Judas Priest
“Espiritu,” Pace De Lucia, John McLaughlin, Al Di Meola
“Humans Being,” -Van Halen
“Still in Love,” -Boston
The highlight of this run playlist without doubt was, “Humans Being,” by Van Halen. It came on right at the end of the 5 miles and I still had energy to burn and this song fanned the flames! It is one of the bands heavier songs, certainly, from the Hagar era and one of Eddie’s great solos.
The tune was written for the soundtrack from the movie, “Twister.” In the solo I’ve read, Eddie wanted to emulate a ‘twister’. He uses an extended ascending line coupled with a driving rhythm to bring it home. It is also one of the first truly soulful solos Eddie put to tape, before the ‘tornado’ the calm before the storm. Adding another element to his already legendary guitar style.
The two Bach guitar works also provide a great soundscape for running. Maybe too mellow for most during a workout, but, perfect for me. I’ve worked on these pieces and understand the Herculean task and effort it takes to perfect them. Much like the efforts of a long distance runner…very motivating! If you’re wondering why the ‘harp’ pieces are performed by a guitarist…the guitar didn’t become a legit instrument until the 19th century. So guitarist have had to transcribe the great works of Bach and others…essentially stealing them for the guitar from harp, lute, cello harpsichord, etc.
Other highlights; John Lord’s keyboards on the DP tune, AC/DC from “For Those About to Rock”(an underrated album in my opinion,) “Carnies,” from the latest Rush release , Fastway and “Espiritu,” from the guitar trio.
Gordon Lightfoot…I have to say I grew up not knowing much about his music. It is mellow and would have punched a hole in my Heavy Metal adolescent teenage musical psyche(is that really even English?) Have to say though Lightfoot has “IT”. Whatever, “IT,” is in music…the guy has it. AMAZING musicianship, its been cool to familiarize myself with his music recently. Also proud to say listening has not damaged my aforementioned psyche.
Check out previous Run Playlist Posts.
Been a great year on many fronts. Day to day it was great, life and work, enjoyable and getting better, although, overall it was a weird year and I can’t really say I am sorry to see 2013 in the rearview mirror.
Blogging was waaaay in the backseat this year, for many reasons. To ALL my fans and followers(mom) I greatly apologize.
Still there were a few interesting trends at 12 Notes & the Truth!
-The little Michael Schenker post I wrote a couple of years ago continues to get hits all the time. Personally I am glad to know there is so much interest in one of my all time favorite guitarists!
-Folks are interested in 12×12 Sudoku, lots of continued hits there, as well
-Malaysia found its way to 12 Notes ALOT. In fact more than any other non-English speaking country. And I know my mom was not in Malaysia this year. Welcome and hope you keep visiting!
-Allegedly Google’s privacy policy has blocked the ever valuable resource of knowing the ‘search terms’ that led visitors to websites. I am SURE they didn’t mine your information any more either…right?!
-One thing that has not changed is my lifetime love of music. Creating, performing, listening, studying and discussing the effect these 12 Notes have on our lives!
Soon this blog may split between another website http://www.guitarguys.com keep an eye out for it as the year develops and I am sure I will let ya know, as well!
Well that’s it short and sweet…
I am looking forward to many great projects and wish you all a prosperous and healthy New Year 2014!
I always teach my kids/students, major, sounds happy and, minor, sounds sad…with that in mind…
Keep life on the Major Sonority side of the street!
Peace,
Mike
I have seen a lot of musical acts in my day. My first concert was Ozzy with guitarist Randy Rhoads just two months before his fatal plane crash. I’ve seen Eddie Van Halen, Michael Schenker, Jimmy Page legendary rock/metal axe-men. I’ve seen classical greats John Williams and the Romeros. I’ve been to the Chicago and Los Angeles Symphonies. I’ve seen local and less-known musicians come through town and absolutely blow everyone away. I’ve seen some of the biggest acts in the world; Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Black Sabbath, Aerosmith…, as well as, some of the most incredible street musicians in America’s big cities…the people you miss your train simply to hear a few more songs. I’ve been to shows in rock, metal, Jazz, classical, world music, pop,…on and on! But, I never saw/heard anything like I did Tuesday night at San Diego’s House of Blues.
Yngwie J. Malmsteen put on a clinic!
Since his debut album, “Rising Force,” in 1984, I have been a fan. His blistering fast runs and arpeggios combining Heavy Metal with musical phrasing of the Baroque and Romantic periods are absolutely stunning. ‘The man obviously took his guitar lessons seriously,’ as one of my friends put it!
The knocks against Yngwie for the past thirty years are as earned as his virtuosity.
He is known for being a bit of a Diva and arrogant. ‘Bit’ might be an understatement. His music, although it has stood the test of time for thirty years, is thought to be lacking in general appeal to those outside of the music/guitar aficionado. There are not a lot of hits, hooks and catchy tunes in Yngwie’s output. His sound and style have not changed much over the years.
The Diva tag comes from a somewhat pompous persona. The J. in his name, as if he is going to be confused with another Yngwie Malmsteen. The use of words in his titles like opus. Oh yeah and he is 50 years old and still years leather pants, no shirt and gaudy jewelry…so the argument is made.
Yngwie hasn’t changed much over the years…which can be viewed as both a lacking and admirable trait. Vivaldi the Italian composer wrote over 500 concertos. Since they were all similar in style it is often jokingly asked , ‘Did Vivaldi compose 500 concertos or one concerto 500 times?’ This question might be applied to Yngwie’s output over his career, as well….but no denying the man’s sheer capability to play the guitar like no other.
Heading to last Tuesdays concert I was stoked to see Yngwie, but, more as seeing a relic. He could be crossed off my list of musicians I want to see but haven’t. I thought it would be a little boring. Watching Yngwie shred all over the place while his band sheepishly backs him up.
I could not have been more wrong! Yngwie was incredible. His showmanship was incredible, his skills were incredible and his band was incredible!
The ability to play a concert is hard enough for anyone…but to put on a show of that caliber and not lose your musical chops is awe-inspiring.
We’ve all seen musicians use gimmicks live. Playing with their teeth, spinning and throwing their instruments, creatively creating feedback while putting on a ‘rock show.’ Yngwie does all of these, but, it doesn’t seem gimmicky. He legitimately has put time into incorporating all these theatrics into his ‘musical’ performance.
His speed and precision have not declined at all in the years since his 1984 debut. Equally astounding is his use of effects. All guitarists use them, like the whammy bar, they often become a crutch to make any level musician sound rocking cool. Yngwie obviously has invested time working out his electronics as part of his guitar acumen.
Most impressive during the show, was his ability, while playing a blistering arpeggio riff to accompany himself with bass pedals using his feet. Not just one note to give a boost underneath but a full contrapuntal bass line with his feet while seamlessly arpeggiating over the top.
The band, in typical Yngwie fashion, are not easy to find out much info about. However, these guys played great. Of course to play with Yngwie…who the band referred to as ‘the Maestro,’ throughout the night, you’ve got to have chops. You have to play fast, but, they put on a rock show, as well. They laid down a rock groove that Yngwie could soar over with his guitar acrobatics while keeping the crowd rocking, not letting it feel like a man and…. oh yeah a band(even though Yngwie does take about 3/4 of the stage for himself)…kudos to those guys!!
Bottom line…if you haven’t seen Yngwie yet but have thought about it….GO!
