One of the first things that struck me—and I think this matters to collectors—is consistency.
The design mirrors the earlier studio box set (Is It Loud Enough? 1980–1983), and that’s a big win. Too often, labels change direction mid-series, but here everything lines up perfectly on the shelf. It feels intentional. Thoughtful.
Inside you’ll find:
- Replica-style mini album sleeves
- Multiple live recordings from key years
- A DVD capturing Schenker in full flight
- A beautifully produced booklet featuring a detailed essay by Martin Popoff
- Full credits and session details throughout
The booklet, in particular, deserves praise. No corners cut. No “let’s save five pages.” It’s comprehensive, passionate, and exactly what you want from a set like this.
The Music – Live Schenker in His Element
This set captures MSG between 1980 and 1984, a period of constant evolution.
Key Performances Include:
- Manchester Apollo 1980
- Hammersmith Odeon 1983
- Tokyo (including Budokan-era material)
- Seibu Stadium, Tokyo 1984
- Rock Will Never Die era recordings
What you really hear across these discs is a band in motion—line-ups shifting, chemistry changing, and Schenker searching for that perfect musical vehicle.
And at the centre of it all…
Absolutely phenomenal.
What sets Schenker apart—and still does—is melody.
Yes, he can play blisteringly fast runs that take your breath away… but it’s the lyrical phrasing, the emotion in his playing, that truly defines him.
There’s a touch of Leslie West in that lower-register tone—something weighty and expressive—but Schenker always sounds like Schenker.
Vocals & Band Evolution
One of the most interesting aspects of this set is hearing Gary Barden develop over time.
- Early performances show a vocalist still finding his live identity
- As the years progress, confidence grows
- Delivery becomes stronger, more assured
It’s subtle, but when you listen across the full set, it’s very noticeable.
And then you have the revolving cast:
- Graham Bonnet
- Ray Kennedy (a standout voice on the Tokyo material)
- Derek St. Holmes
- Rhythm sections featuring members linked to the Sensational Alex Harvey Band
- The powerhouse presence of Cozy Powell
This wasn’t a static band—it was a carousel of talent, all orbiting Schenker’s vision.
The DVD Experience
The included DVD is very much of its time:
- 4:3 aspect ratio
If you already own every MSG live release in multiple formats…
➡️ You may not need this.
There’s a whole generation rediscovering Schenker now.
Fans in their 40s, 50s and beyond who maybe missed pieces of this catalogue first time around.
This set brings it all together.
