UFO’s Obsession (2024 Remastered Deluxe Edition): A Fresh Look at a Hard Rock Classic
UFO’s 1978 album Obsession is set to receive a new lease on life with the upcoming release of the 2024 Remastered Deluxe Edition. Slated for release as a 2CD set on Chrysalis UK, this deluxe edition offers a remastered version of the original album, along with previously unreleased live material and bonus tracks. As the final studio album to feature guitar virtuoso Michael Schenker before his temporary departure from UFO, Obsession holds a special place in the band’s storied history.
A Key Moment in UFO’s Career
Obsession was released at a pivotal time for UFO. It was the band’s seventh studio album and followed the success of Lights Out (1977), which firmly established the band as a force to be reckoned with in the hard rock and heavy metal scenes. While Lights Out broke into the UK Albums Chart and peaked at No. 23 on the US Billboard 200, Obsession continued this momentum, reaching No. 26 in the US and further cementing UFO’s reputation as one of the leading rock acts of the late 1970s.
With Obsession, UFO showcased a more atmospheric and darker sound, signaling the deepening collaboration between vocalist Phil Mogg and guitarist Michael Schenker. The album features iconic tracks like “Only You Can Rock Me” and “Cherry,” both of which became staples in the band’s live performances. The album’s production, handled by Ron Nevison, helped give it a polished yet powerful sound, one that would stand the test of time.
The 2024 Remastered Deluxe Edition: What’s New?
This new remastered edition of Obsession has been crafted with great care, using the original production tape transfers and remastered at AIR Mastering.
One of the standout features of this deluxe edition is the inclusion of a previously unreleased 2024 mix of Live At The Agora Ballroom, Cleveland. While parts of this performance originally appeared on UFO’s legendary Strangers In The Night live album, this new mix—engineered by renowned producer Brian Kehew—offers the best version to date, straight from the original multi-track tapes. This live set captures UFO at their peak, with Schenker’s blistering guitar work and Mogg’s commanding vocals on full display.
In addition to the remastered album and live material, the 2024 Remastered Deluxe Edition also includes four bonus tracks. Notably, the set features an alternate version of “Cherry,” giving listeners a fresh perspective on one of the band’s most beloved tracks.
Two of the bonus studio tracks were recorded at The Record Plant during sessions for Strangers In The Night, adding another layer of historical significance to this release. These tracks highlight UFO’s creative energy in the months following Obsession’s release, offering a glimpse into the band’s dynamic during one of their most productive periods.
Upon its original release, Obsession was met with critical acclaim for its blend of hard rock, intricate melodies, and atmospheric elements. The album’s success further solidified UFO’s standing in the rock world, and Michael Schenker’s contributions were particularly praised. Schenker’s innovative guitar work on Obsession became a key influence on future generations of guitarists, with tracks like “Hot ‘n’ Ready” and “Pack It Up (And Go)” showcasing his remarkable technical ability and creativity.
Although Schenker departed the band shortly after the release of Obsession, the album remains a defining moment in UFO’s discography. It bridged the gap between their earlier, more straightforward rock sound and the more complex, progressive elements that would follow. Today, Obsession is regarded as a landmark album, not just for UFO but for hard rock and heavy metal as a whole.
The deluxe packaging includes a poster booklet with liner notes by esteemed music journalist Michael Hann, featuring interviews with key band members Phil Mogg, Andy Parker, and Michael Schenker. This detailed insight into the making of Obsession offers fans a deeper understanding of the album’s creation and its lasting impact.
While Obsession didn’t quite reach the chart heights of Lights Out, it performed admirably, hitting No. 26 on the US Billboard 200 and solidifying UFO’s place in the American rock market. The album also spawned successful singles like “Only You Can Rock Me,” which received significant airplay and became a fan favorite at live shows. Over the years, Obsession has earned its place as one of UFO’s classic albums, frequently cited by fans and critics as one of the band’s finest works.
The Obsession (2024 Remastered Deluxe Edition) will be released on November 8, 2024, and is available for pre-order now.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
