Uli Jon Roth and The Michael Shencker Group
September 11th, 2004 House of Blues Chicago, Il.
by John Haseltine
For those of you who don’t quite have the memory you used to, think back. Back to the 70’s is when Uli Jon Roth started his amazing journey to where he is today. Under the name Ulrich Roth, as one of the founders and main songwriters for the Scorpions for their first few records. Through many a journey, and a long overdue, 19 year absence here in America, Uli finally hit the shores of California in August to play a string of dates with The Michael Shencker group. For those who have followed his career in any way, understands the brilliance of Uli’s playing. He, I believe is the reason for your Yngwie’s, Satriani’s, Vai’s ect., ect.,ect. With his legendary seven string, “Sky Guitar”, Uli’s performance this evening was truly amazing. A sight that must be seen in the flesh. Playing tracks from his latest Metamorphosis Concerto, as well as selections from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons which included ,”Winter and Spring”. also played were songs from his previous bands Electric Sun “Enola Gay-Hiroshima Today?” and a revised version of the Scorpions classic, “The Sails Of Charon”, with Liz Vandall‘s vocals accompanying the song. An amazing display from the guitar virtuoso himself. His rendition of Jimi’s “All Along The Watchtower” was stunning as well. Uli plays with a video backdrop of his Sky Orchestra. An amazing visual experience to watch. It’s as if they are right there behind him. Did I mention he was amazing? The fact that he only played for a little over an hour was definitely the low point of the show. Many of the crowd was very pleased to see Uli back in the states.
The Michael Shencker Group put on a great show as well. Another rock guitar legend. I had never seen MSG before either. Although I am familiar with his career, the paths had never crossed. He played many selections from throughout his equally amazing career. Songs which included ,” Are You Ready To Rock, Too Hot To Handle, Arachnaphobiac, Attack Of The Mad Axeman, Doctor,Doctor”, and so many more. The crowd went wild for Shencker. They were very much into every song play this evening. The show ended with “Rock Bottom”, which included Uli. Michael and Uli traded solo licks back and forth for an all out jam of the song. What an extraordinary line up. This tour has a few more dates here in the U.S before heading off to Europe through November. Philadelphia, PA on 9/15, Wallington, NJ on 9/16, Springfield, VA on 9/17 and Farmingdale ,NY on 9/18. Hopefully you read this and get to the show. Truly a stunning display from two of the greatest and most influential guitarist of our time.
