By Cathy Rose A. Garcia
Staff Reporter
German heavy metal rocker Michael Schenker reunited with the original members of his rock group Michael Schenker Group (MSG) to release a new album ``In the Midst of Beauty'' this year.
The Michael Schenker Group returns to Seoul Aug. 31 with the ``Rock Will Never Die'' concert at Melon-AX Hall.
A noted rock guitarist, Schenker was a founding member of MSG and Scorpions, and has also performed with UFO. At the age of 16, he made his debut with the Scorpions on their first album ``Lonesome Crow,'' alongside his older brother and guitarist Rudolf.
He joined UFO as lead guitarist in 1974, but left the group in 1978. Schenker formed MSG in 1980, and released numerous hit albums but throughout the years, the line-up has changed several times.
This year, the 53-year-old musician gathered MSG's original members and well-known musicians: vocalist Gary Barden, keyboardist Don Airey, drummer Simon Phillips and bassist Neil Murray for the new album, ``In the Midst of Beauty.''
In an e-mail interview with The Korea Times, Schenker talked about the new album, as well as the MSG's comeback concert in Seoul.
MSG has just released a new album ``In the Midst of Beauty.'' Can you tell us about the new album?
The new album is basically a reunion album of MSG. This is the reunion of the original members from MSG's debut album. Everybody tried his best, but Gary's (Barden) contribution was the biggest. I'm satisfied with the result, of course.
You wrote all the songs on your new album. Where did you get inspiration to write the songs and music?
The biggest inspiration for me is everything I collect from practicing guitar.
You've been a rock guitarist for the past few decades. How do you think you've changed as a musician?
Well, it's good to get attention, support and love from people, even if I were not a musician. And the experiences I got with Scorpions, UFO and MSG gave me a lot of composure, musically.
What do you consider the highlights and low points in your career?
I'm making and playing music for myself, not anybody else. I enjoyed, am enjoying and will enjoy it. It's not easy to say which is when.
What is your favorite MSG song of all time? Why?
I've never thought why some tracks are hits but others not, even when I recognized the fans' reaction. It's also difficult to say which is my favorite and which is not.
What do you think is your secret to success? Do you have any advice for young aspiring musicians?
I just enjoy music as always. To be honest, I can't say that I'm playing only for the audience or fans. It's all for myself. But I always appreciate the true support from my fans. It's not advice, but I hope young musicians will be themselves when practicing guitar. And I hope they will enjoy the moment.
What can fans expect from your upcoming concert in Seoul?
There's only one thing I can promise. You will enjoy the show. It's great to get back there and have a live show in Korea again.
Tickets for the MSG concert are 88,000 won. Visit ticket.auction.co.kr.