Michael Schenker Group - Assault Attack | 80s Metal Revisited

Michael Schenker Group - Assault Attack | 80s Metal Revisited

Author: Beyond the hits—exploring the albums, bands, and moments that shaped the heavy 70s & 80s metal March 27, 2025 Duration: 1:03:27

Before glam exploded and metal ruled MTV, one album tried to bridge the shred-heavy brilliance of Europe with the big-hook ambitions of American rock radio—only to be lost in the chaos of lineup changes and flashing lights. Literally.

In this episode, we rediscover Assault Attack by the Michael Schenker Group—a cult classic released in 1982 that had everything going for it: a legendary guitarist, a powerhouse vocalist, and production by Martin Birch. So why didn’t it break through?

We dig into the story behind the album’s creation, from the fallout after One Night at Budokan to the last-minute firing of Graham Bonnet before the band could tour. Along the way, we explore what makes Assault Attack stand out musically—from Schenker’s melodic riffing to the underrated grooves laid down by bassist Chris Glen and drummer Ted McKenna.

This episode is for fans of underappreciated hard rock, for those who love when bands sound like bands (not just guitar showcases), and for anyone who’s ever found a hidden gem in the cassette bin and wondered how it got there. If you’re into Rainbow, UFO, or even Iron Maiden’s deeper cuts, this one’s got something for you.

Episode Highlights

• 0:00 – [Intro: “Assault Attack”] – The mystery of a great album no one saw live• 5:12 – [Band History] – How MSG went from Budokan to Bonnet• 12:45 – [Album Overview] – Birch’s production magic and the shift in sound• 21:30 – [“Desert Song”] – A haunting riff and vocal synergy• 29:00 – [“Broken Promises”] – The secret star: Chris Glen’s bass lines• 34:20 – [“Dancer”] – Big hooks, goofy lyrics, and Bonnet’s vocal drama• 42:00 – [Legacy & What-Ifs] – What could’ve been with Coverdale or a proper tour• 48:10 – [Community Pick] – How one vote brought this album into the spotlight

Don’t Miss Out

Dig deeper into forgotten albums and the stories that shaped them. Listen to the full episode now, and if you want to have a say in what we cover next:

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There's a whole world of heavy music beyond the radio staples, and that's exactly where Dig Me Out: 70s & 80s Metal lives. Hosts J, Chip, and Tim are your guides, moving past the greatest hits to explore the full albums, influential bands, and pivotal moments that built the sound of an era. Each episode focuses on a single record, digging into the riffs, the production, and the cultural context that makes it matter. You'll hear about the giants like Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin, of course, but the conversation also celebrates the unsung heroes and delves into the glam and excess of acts like Mötley Crüe. This isn't just a track-by-track review; it's a deep, engaging commentary on the stories behind the music. The podcast thrives on the hosts' shared passion and knowledge, making each discussion feel like a conversation among friends who genuinely love turning over every stone in metal's formative decades. If you've ever wondered about the album that came before a band's big breakthrough or wanted to understand the scene that made a particular sound possible, you'll find a home here. It's a dedicated, thoughtful excavation of the hard rock and metal that defined the 70s and 80s, designed for listeners who believe the deep cuts are often where the real magic lies.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Dig Me Out: 70s & 80s Metal
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