Japanese press release (translated)
Michael Schenker Budokan Concert Commemorative Edition: The heartbeat of a new “Flying Legend”! Celebrating the 45th anniversary under the “MSG” name with a completely original new work! The crystallization of the flying spirit: Don’t Sell Your Soul!
As noted above, this work, titled Don’t Sell Your Soul, is a commemorative release for next year’s Budokan concert, echoing the legendary album Flying Legend: MSG Budokan Live. The fact that it is being released under the “MSG” banner alone heightens expectations for Michael, MSG, Budokan, and HR/HM fans alike. On this album, Michael’s matured guitar playing has reached a level that can only be described as divine. His solos continue to be honed and polished, his riffs born from extraordinary ideas, and his compositions resonate deeply with the listener; a true unity of spirit, skill, and body.
Another major highlight is Swedish vocalist Erik Grönwall. He won a TV singing competition in 2009, later became the vocalist for H.E.A.T, and in 2022 joined Skid Row. Recently, he has also toured with Michael, proving himself to be a powerhouse performer. His powerful and soaring voice brings even greater brilliance to Michael’s music. Drummer Bodo Schopf, bassist Barend Courbois, and keyboardist Steve Mann are all familiar faces from Michael’s tours, providing stable and well-grounded performances that show their deep understanding of Michael’s compositions. Frequent collaborator Robin McAuley and current touring singer Roberto Dimitri Liapakis also participate as guests, along with Michael Voss. Unlike the celebratory tone of the previous work, this album is a fully realized statement by Michael, released in the spirit of MSG’s 45th anniversary and with an eye on the upcoming Budokan performance. The result is a top-tier achievement worthy of the moment.
True to the title Don’t Sell Your Soul, Michael stays true to his convictions and continues to soar. This album, infused with his flying spirit, marks the beginning of a new legend from MSG, a gift to all HR/HM fans and guitar enthusiasts.
• Michael Schenker Budokan Concert Commemorative Edition!! A stunning new, fully original work released under the “MSG” name, evoking the legendary Flying Legend!
• Super-vocalist Erik Grönwall (H.E.A.T, Skid Row) joins as lead singer!
• Michael’s guitar, now at full maturity, has entered a realm worthy of being called divine artistry. The ultimate crystallization of the flying spirit!
Members:
Michael Schenker – Guitar
Erik Grönwall – Vocals
Steve Mann – Keyboards
Bodo Schopf – Drums
Barend Courbois – Bass
Guest Vocalists:
Roberto Dimitri Liapakis (M.8)
Robin McAuley (M.3, 9)
Michael Voss (M.4, 6)
Product Information
[Planned CD Tracklist]
1. Don’t Sell Your Soul
2. Danger Zone
3. Eye of the Storm
4. Janie the Fox
5. I Can’t Stand Waiting
6. Sign of the Times
7. The Chosen
8. It’s You
9. Sixstring Shotgun
10. Flesh and Bone
11. Surrender