Complete List Of UFO Studio Albums And Discography

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UFO was first formed in London in 1968. They emerged as a pivotal force bridging the gap between early hard rock and heavy metal and the burgeoning New Wave of British Heavy Metal. The band’s enduring lineup comprises Phil Mogg on vocals, Vinnie Moore wielding the lead guitar, Neil Carter handling rhythm guitar and keyboards, Rob De Luca on bass guitar, and Andy Parker behind the drums. Despite numerous lineup alterations, with Mogg being the sole constant presence, UFO experienced two hiatuses, from 1983 to 1984 and again between 1989 and 1991. Michael Schenker, the ex-Scorpions guitarist and founder of the Michael Schenker Group (MSG), played a significant role in UFO’s history, contributing between 1973 and 1978 and making intermittent returns from 1993 to 2003 before being succeeded by Moore.

In May 2018, Mogg announced his impending retirement, planning to exit UFO following a final tour in 2019. However, the band’s farewell tour was slated to end in 2022 but was ultimately canceled due to Mogg’s health concerns.

Throughout their expansive 56-year career, UFO has released an impressive discography including 22 studio albums, 14 live recordings, 16 compilations, and a cover album. They enjoyed moderate success in the late 70s and early 80s, with several albums and singles hitting the UK and US Top 40 charts. UFO’s global record sales exceed 20 million, with iconic tracks like “Doctor Doctor”, “Rock Bottom”, “Natural Thing”, “Lights Out”, “Too Hot to Handle”, and “Only You Can Rock Me” solidifying their legacy. Renowned for their influence on hard rock and heavy metal, UFO was ranked 84th on VH1’s “100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock”.

The band’s inception occurred in 1968 with Phil Mogg, Mick Bolton, Pete Way, and Andy Parker, initially named Hocus Pocus before adopting the UFO moniker. Their early work, encapsulated in albums like UFO 1 and UFO 2: Flying, leaned towards space rock but failed to gain significant traction in the UK and the US. The addition of Michael Schenker in 1973 marked a turning point, steering the band towards a harder-edged rock sound as evidenced in the albums Phenomenon and Force It, which broadened their appeal.

UFO’s golden era, defined by albums like Lights Out and Obsession, showcased their ability to blend hard rock with compelling melodies, earning critical acclaim and a robust fan following. However, internal tensions, particularly between Mogg and Schenker, led to lineup changes and fluctuations in the band’s success. Despite these challenges, UFO continued to produce music, exploring different sounds and themes in albums like The Monkey Puzzle, The Visitor, Seven Deadly, and A Conspiracy of Stars.

UFO STUDIO ALBUMS

UFO 1 (1970)

Released October 1970

UFO 1 is the debut album by the British rock band UFO, marking the beginning of their long and influential career in the music industry. Released in October 1970, the album showcases a mix of space rock and hard rock, setting the stage for the band’s future musical direction. Notable for its raw energy and experimental sound, UFO 1 includes a blend of original tracks and covers, demonstrating the band’s versatility and their ability to infuse classic rock with a fresh, innovative twist. The album features standout tracks such as “Boogie” and the band’s unique rendition of “C’mon Everybody,” which became a hit and significantly contributed to the album’s success. Recorded at various studios in the UK, the album’s production captured the burgeoning rock scene’s spirit and UFO’s ambition to carve out their unique niche.

CD Track Listings:

“Unidentified Flying Object” – 2:19
“Boogie” – 4:17
“C’mon Everybody” – 3:12
“Shake It About” – 3:47
“(Come Away) Melinda” – 5:06
“Timothy” – 3:29
“Follow You Home” – 2:14
“Treacle People” – 3:24
“Who Do You Love” – 7:50
“Evil” – 3:27

UFO 2: Flying (1971)

Released October 1971

UFO 2: Flying, the second album by UFO, released in 1971, delves deeper into the space rock genre, expanding on the themes and musical experimentation of their debut. The album is renowned for its lengthy, jam-session-like tracks that encapsulate the band’s exploratory approach to music during this era. Notably, the track “Star Storm” exemplifies UFO’s ability to blend intricate guitar work with expansive, atmospheric soundscapes, creating an immersive listening experience. Recorded in the UK, UFO 2: Flying solidified UFO’s reputation as pioneers of the space rock movement, showcasing their willingness to push the boundaries of conventional rock music and explore new sonic territories.

CD Track Listings:

“Silver Bird” – 6:53
“Star Storm” – 18:54
“Prince Kajuku” – 3:55
“The Coming of Prince Kajuku” – 3:43
“Flying” – 26:30

Phenomenon (1974)

Released May 1974

Phenomenon marks a significant shift in UFO’s musical direction, introducing a more conventional hard rock sound that would come to define much of their subsequent work. Released in 1974, the album features the addition of guitarist Michael Schenker, whose influence is evident in the tighter, more focused guitar-driven tracks. Songs like “Doctor Doctor” and “Rock Bottom” became instant classics, showcasing Schenker’s virtuosic guitar work and solidifying UFO’s place in the hard rock pantheon. Recorded at Morgan Studios in London, Phenomenon was a critical and commercial success.

CD Track Listings:

“Too Young to Know” – 3:10
“Crystal Light” – 3:47
“Doctor Doctor” – 4:12
“Space Child” – 4:01
“Rock Bottom” – 6:32
“Oh My” – 2:28
“Time on My Hands” – 4:10
“Built for Comfort” – 3:01
“Lipstick Traces” – 2:20
“Queen of the Deep” – 5:44

Force It (1975)

Released July 1975

Force It, UFO’s fourth studio album, released in 1975, continues the hard rock trajectory established by Phenomenon. With its compelling blend of catchy riffs, memorable melodies, and muscular rock grooves, the album further established UFO as a formidable force in the rock music scene. Tracks like “Let It Roll” and “Shoot Shoot” exemplify the band’s knack for combining hard-hitting rock with infectious hooks, while “Love to Love” showcases their ability to incorporate more nuanced, emotive elements into their sound. Recorded at Morgan Studios, Force It was well-received by fans and critics alike.

CD Track Listings:

“Let It Roll” – 3:57
“Shoot Shoot” – 3:40
“High Flyer” – 4:08
“Love Lost Love” – 3:21
“Out in the Street” – 5:18
“Mother Mary” – 3:49
“Too Much of Nothing” – 4:02
“Dance Your Life Away” – 3:35
“This Kid’s” (including “Between the Walls”) – 6:13

No Heavy Petting (1976)

Released May 1976

No Heavy Petting, UFO’s fifth studio album, released in 1976, builds on the hard rock foundation laid by its predecessors while incorporating more diverse musical elements and textures. The album features a mix of high-energy rockers and more intricate, melodically rich compositions, highlighting the band’s evolving sound and musical maturity. Tracks like “Natural Thing” and “I’m a Loser” demonstrate UFO’s ability to craft compelling rock anthems, while “Belladonna” and “Martian Landscape” explore more atmospheric, moody territories. Recorded at Morgan Studios and Wessex Sound Studios in London, No Heavy Petting was praised for its dynamic range and depth.

CD Track Listings:

“Natural Thing” – 4:00
“I’m a Loser” – 3:55
“Can You Roll Her” – 2:59
“Belladonna” – 4:32
“Reasons Love” – 3:17
“Highway Lady” – 3:49
“On with the Action” – 5:03
“A Fool in Love” – 2:50
“Martian Landscape” – 5:14

Lights Out (1977)

Released May 1977

Lights Out is a seminal album by UFO, released in 1977, that showcases the band at the peak of their musical prowess. The title track “Lights Out” became one of their most iconic songs, capturing the raw energy and emotion that defined UFO’s sound during this era. The album blends hard-hitting rock anthems with more introspective, melodic compositions, demonstrating the band’s versatility and depth. “Love to Love” stands out for its epic, sweeping arrangement.

CD Track Listings:

“Too Hot to Handle” – 3:37
“Just Another Suicide” – 4:58
“Try Me” – 4:49
“Lights Out” – 4:33
“Gettin’ Ready” – 3:46
“Alone Again Or” – 3:00
“Electric Phase” – 4:20
“Love to Love” – 7:38

Obsession (1978)

Released June 1978

Obsession, released in 1978, is the final studio album to feature Michael Schenker on lead guitar before his first departure from the band. The album continues UFO’s tradition of delivering high-energy rock combined with melodic craftsmanship. With tracks like “Only You Can Rock Me” and “Cherry,” UFO demonstrated their prowess in creating infectious rock anthems that resonated with audiences worldwide. The album’s production, handled by Ron Nevison, captures the band’s dynamic live energy and the intricate layers of their sound, making Obsession a standout release in UFO’s discography. The album was recorded at C.P. McGregors, Los Angeles, and AIR Studios, London.

CD Track Listings:

“Only You Can Rock Me” – 4:08
“Pack It Up (And Go)” – 3:14
“Arbory Hill” – 1:11
“Ain’t No Baby” – 3:58
“Lookin’ Out for No. 1” – 4:34
“Hot ‘n’ Ready” – 3:16
“Cherry” – 3:34
“You Don’t Fool Me” – 3:23
“Lookin’ Out for No. 1 (Reprise)” – 1:14
“One More for the Rodeo” – 3:45
“Born to Lose” – 3:32

No Place to Run (1980)

Released January 1980

No Place to Run marks a new chapter for UFO, being the first album with Paul Chapman as the lead guitarist following Michael Schenker’s departure. Produced by George Martin, renowned for his work with The Beatles, the album showcases a refined sound, blending the band’s signature hard rock style with more polished, accessible rock elements. Tracks like “Young Blood” and “No Place to Run” offer catchy hooks and memorable melodies, while “Lettin’ Go” and “Mystery Train” highlight the band’s rock ‘n’ roll roots. Recorded at AIR Studios in London and Montserrat.

CD Track Listings:

“Alpha Centauri” – 1:56
“Lettin’ Go” – 4:01
“Mystery Train” – 3:55
“This Fire Burns Tonight” – 4:13
“Gone in the Night” – 3:47
“Young Blood” – 3:59
“No Place to Run” – 3:58
“Take It or Leave It” – 3:01
“Money, Money” – 3:29
“Anyday” – 3:48

The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent (1981)

Released January 1981

The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent is a standout album in UFO’s discography, demonstrating the band’s ability to evolve their sound. Released in 1981, the album features a blend of hard-hitting rock tunes and more melodic, lyrically rich songs. Tracks like “Lonely Heart” and “Long Gone” showcase the band’s knack for combining powerful rock rhythms with emotive lyrics, while the title track, “The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent,” epitomizes UFO’s talent for storytelling through music. Recorded at AIR Studios in London.

CD Track Listings:

“Chains Chains” – 3:25
“Long Gone” – 5:17
“The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent” – 4:57
“It’s Killing Me” – 4:29
“Makin’ Moves” – 4:44
“Lonely Heart” – 5:00
“Couldn’t Get It Right” – 4:34
“Profession of Violence” – 4:22

Mechanix (1982)

Released February 1982

Mechanix, UFO’s tenth studio album, released in 1982, continues the band’s tradition of delivering robust hard rock music. The album features a mix of high-energy rock tracks and mid-tempo songs that showcase the band’s musical versatility. With memorable songs like “Let It Rain” and “We Belong to the Night,” UFO demonstrated their ability to craft catchy, enduring rock anthems. “Back into My Life” and “The Writer” highlight the band’s more introspective and melodic side. Recorded at AIR Studios in Montserrat and London.

CD Track Listings:

“The Writer” – 4:12
“Somethin’ Else” – 3:20
“Back into My Life” – 4:59
“You’ll Get Love” – 3:09
“Doing It All for You” – 5:01
“We Belong to the Night” – 3:57
“Let It Rain” – 4:01
“Terri” – 3:53
“Feel It” – 4:07
“Dreaming” – 3:57

Making Contact (1983)

Released February 1983

Making Contact is UFO’s eleventh studio album, released in 1983, amidst a period of transition for the band. It was the last album to feature bassist Pete Way and marked a point where UFO started to explore different musical territories, blending their traditional hard rock sound with more commercial rock elements. Songs like “Blinded by a Lie” and “When It’s Time to Rock” encapsulate the band’s efforts to adapt to the evolving rock scene of the early ’80s. Despite facing challenges, including internal tensions and changing band dynamics, Making Contact showcased UFO’s resilience and willingness to experiment with their sound. Recorded at The Manor Studio in Shipton-on-Cherwell, England.

CD Track Listings:

“Blinded by a Lie” – 3:58
“Diesel in the Dust” – 4:29
“A Fool for Love” – 3:57
“You and Me” – 3:20
“When It’s Time to Rock” – 5:27
“The Way the Wild Wind Blows” – 4:13
“Call My Name” – 3:13
“All Over You” – 4:23
“No Getaway” – 3:31
“Push, It’s Love” – 3:17

Misdemeanor (1985)

Released November 1985

Misdemeanor represents a significant shift in UFO’s musical direction, with the band fully embracing a more polished, AOR (Album-Oriented Rock) and melodic rock sound. Released in 1985, the album features catchy hooks, synthesizer-laden tracks, and more radio-friendly arrangements, aiming to capture a broader audience in the mid-80s rock scene. Tracks like “This Time” and “Heaven’s Gate” highlight the band’s foray into more accessible, pop-oriented rock, while still maintaining elements of their hard rock roots. Recorded at Wisseloord Studios in Hilversum, Netherlands.

CD Track Listings:

“This Time” – 4:36
“One Heart” – 4:09
“Night Run” – 4:32
“The Only Ones” – 5:16
“Meanstreets” – 4:17
“Name of Love” – 4:37
“Blue” – 5:18
“Dream the Dream” – 4:15
“Heaven’s Gate” – 4:15
“Wreckless” – 4:59

High Stakes & Dangerous Men (1992)

Released 1992

High Stakes & Dangerous Men marks UFO’s return after a hiatus, with the band reuniting to produce their thirteenth studio album. Released in 1992, the album sees the band returning to their hard rock roots, featuring powerful guitar riffs, dynamic rhythms, and Phil Mogg’s distinctive vocals. Tracks like “Borderline” and “Running Up the Highway” showcase UFO’s classic sound, updated for the ’90s rock audience. The album’s title reflects the band’s acknowledgment of the risks and challenges in the music industry, with UFO taking a gamble on their comeback.

CD Track Listings:

“Borderline” – 5:20
“Primed for Time” – 3:22
“She’s the One” – 3:45
“Ain’t Life Sweet” – 3:41
“Don’t Want to Lose You” – 5:37
“Burnin’ Fire” – 4:02
“Running Up the Highway” – 4:39
“Back Door Man” – 5:09
“One of Those Nights” – 4:11
“Shake It About” – 3:07

Walk on Water (1995)

Released April 1995

Walk on Water is UFO’s triumphant reunion album that saw the return of Michael Schenker on guitar, Phil Mogg on vocals, Pete Way on bass, and Andy Parker on drums, rekindling the classic lineup from the band’s late 70s peak. This album marked their first collaboration in over a decade, revitalizing their chemistry with a blend of hard-hitting rockers and melodic tracks that hark back to their heyday. Highlights include “A Self Made Man” and the powerful “Venus,” which showcase the band’s dynamic range and Schenker’s exceptional guitar work. Recorded at Rumbo Recorders in Los Angeles.

CD Track Listings:

“A Self Made Man” – 6:23
“Venus” – 5:18
“Pushed to the Limit” – 3:48
“Stopped by a Bullet (of Love)” – 4:34
“Darker Days” – 5:37
“Running on Empty” – 5:10
“Knock, Knock” – 4:20
“Dreaming of Summer” – 7:02
“Doctor Doctor ’95” – 4:27
“Lights Out ’95” – 5:14

Covenant (2000)

Released July 2000

Covenant continues UFO’s resurgence, featuring the classic lineup with Michael Schenker’s guitar prowess front and center. This album blends hard rock elements with melodic hooks, showcasing the band’s matured songwriting and instrumental skills. Tracks like “Love is Forever” and “Unraveled” demonstrate a more refined approach to their music, combining powerful riffs with catchy melodies. Covenant also includes a second disc of live recordings, offering fans a taste of the band’s dynamic live performances. Recorded at The Peppermint Park Studios in Hannover, Germany.

CD Track Listings:

Studio:

“Love is Forever” – 4:20
“Unraveled” – 3:15
“Miss the Lights” – 4:46
“Midnight Train” – 4:23
“Fool’s Gold” – 5:33
“In the Middle of Madness” – 3:44
“The Smell of Money” – 3:42
“Rise Again” – 4:26
“Serenade” – 5:02
“Cowboy Joe” – 4:15
“The World and His Dog” – 3:17

Live:

“Mother Mary” – Live
“This Kid’s” – Live
“Let It Roll” – Live
“Out in the Street” – Live
“Venus” – Live
“Pushed to the Limit” – Live

Sharks (2002)

Released August 2002

Sharks is yet another solid entry in UFO’s discography, featuring Michael Schenker, Phil Mogg, and Pete Way, with Aynsley Dunbar joining on drums. This album delivers a potent mix of hard rock tunes, characterized by Schenker’s distinctive guitar riffs and Mogg’s powerful vocals. Tracks like “Fighting Man” and “Sea of Faith” stand out for their energetic delivery and classic UFO sound, blending heavy rock with melodic elements. Recorded at Area 51 Studios in Celle, Germany, with producer Tommy Newton.

CD Track Listings:

“Outlaw Man” – 4:02
“Quicksilver Rider” – 4:07
“Serenade” – 5:02
“Deadman Walking” – 4:32
“Shadow Dancer” – 4:50
“Someone’s Gonna Have to Pay” – 5:28
“Sea of Faith” – 5:50
“Fighting Man” – 4:32
“Perfect View” – 4:02
“Crossing Over” – 4:48
“Hawaii” – 5:18

You Are Here (2004)

Released February 2004

You Are Here marks a new era for UFO with the introduction of Vinnie Moore taking over lead guitar duties, alongside the core members Phil Mogg, Pete Way, and returning drummer Jason Bonham. This lineup change brought a fresh dynamic to the band’s sound, evident in Moore’s technical prowess and modern guitar stylings. The album features a collection of hard rock tracks that retain the classic UFO vibe while showcasing a more contemporary edge. Songs like “Daylight Goes to Town” and “The Wild One” highlight the band’s ability to craft compelling rock anthems with catchy hooks and robust guitar riffs. Recorded at Area 51 Studios in Celle, Germany, with producer Tommy Newton.

CD Track Listings:

“Daylight Goes to Town” – 4:33
“Black Cold Coffee” – 3:20
“The Wild One” – 5:39
“Give It Up” – 4:25
“Call Me” – 4:03
“Slipping Away” – 4:56
“The Spark That Is Us” – 4:11
“Sympathy” – 3:48
“Mr. Freeze” – 4:43
“Jelloman” – 4:14
“Baby Blue” – 4:32
“Swallow” – 4:30

The Monkey Puzzle (2006)

Released September 25, 2006

The Monkey Puzzle marks UFO’s first album with drummer Andy Parker since 1995’s Walk on Water. This album sees the band blending their traditional hard rock sound with contemporary influences, resulting in a collection of tracks that are both fresh and reminiscent of their classic era. Highlights like “Hard Being Me” and “Who’s Fooling Who” showcase the band’s knack for catchy riffs and memorable choruses, while “Black and Blue” delves into bluesier territory, demonstrating their musical versatility. Recorded at Area 51 Studios in Celle, Germany, with producer Tommy Newton.

CD Track Listings:

“Hard Being Me” – 3:35
“Heavenly Body” – 3:52
“Some Other Guy” – 4:38
“Who’s Fooling Who?” – 3:57
“Black and Blue” – 5:29
“Drink Too Much” – 4:40
“World Cruise” – 3:29
“Down by the River” – 3:18
“Good Bye You” – 4:41
“Rolling Man” – 4:24
“Kingston Town” – 4:08

The Visitor (2009)

Released June 2, 2009

The Visitor finds UFO delving into themes of life’s transience and the passage of time, reflected in both the lyrical content and the mature, blues-infused rock sound. The absence of Pete Way due to health issues brings a change in the band’s dynamics, yet the album stands out for its cohesive sound and poignant songwriting. Tracks like “Saving Me” and “Villains & Thieves” offer a mix of powerful rock anthems and introspective ballads, with Phil Mogg’s vocals conveying a sense of introspection and resilience. Recorded at Area 51 Studios with Tommy Newton once again at the helm.

CD Track Listings:

“Saving Me” – 5:08
“On the Waterfront” – 3:50
“Hell Driver” – 4:26
“Stop Breaking Down” – 4:55
“Rock Ready” – 3:06
“Living Proof” – 4:31
“Can’t Buy a Thrill” – 5:14
“Forsaken” – 5:50
“Villains & Thieves” – 3:33
“Stranger in Town” – 3:57

Seven Deadly (2012)

Released February 27, 2012

Seven Deadly is an assertive display of UFO’s enduring talent for crafting hard-hitting rock music infused with blues and melodic elements. The album features a mix of gritty, high-energy tracks and emotive ballads, with standout songs like “Fight Night” and “Wonderland” showcasing the band’s signature combination of tight musicianship and compelling storytelling. Phil Mogg’s lyrical prowess is on full display, delivering narratives filled with intrigue and emotion. Recorded at Area 51 Studios with Tommy Newton.

CD Track Listings:

“Fight Night” – 4:34
“Wonderland” – 5:08
“Mojo Town” – 3:56
“Angel Station” – 6:23
“Year of the Gun” – 4:07
“The Last Stone Rider” – 3:52
“Steal Yourself” – 4:46
“Burn Your House Down” – 4:59
“The Fear” – 3:44
“Waving Good Bye” – 5:10

A Conspiracy of Stars (2015)

Released February 23, 2015

A Conspiracy of Stars offers a compelling mix of hard rock, blues, and melodic elements that have defined UFO’s sound for decades. With tracks like “Ballad of the Left Hand Gun” and “The Killing Kind,” the album showcases the band’s ability to blend powerful riffs with memorable melodies, underscored by Phil Mogg’s evocative lyrics and distinctive vocal delivery. The inclusion of “Sugar Cane” and “Devil’s in the Detail” highlight the band’s versatility and continued relevance in the rock genre. Recorded at Area 51 Studios with producer Chris Tsangarides.

CD Track Listings:

“The Killing Kind” – 4:29
“Run Boy Run” – 4:23
“Ballad of the Left Hand Gun” – 5:07
“Sugar Cane” – 6:10
“Devils in the Detail” – 5:11
“Precious Cargo” – 5:51
“The Real Deal” – 4:06
“One and Only” – 3:56
“Messiah of Love” – 4:34
“Rolling Rolling” – 5:18

The Salentino Cuts (2017)

Released September 29, 2017

The Salentino Cuts is UFO’s first and only covers album, showcasing the band’s interpretations of classic rock and blues tracks from a wide array of artists. This album features renditions of songs by icons such as The Yardbirds, John Mellencamp, Bill Withers, and many others, highlighting UFO’s versatility and deep respect for the roots of rock music. Standout covers include “Heartful of Soul,” “Mississippi Queen,” and “Ain’t No Sunshine,” each imbued with UFO’s distinctive hard rock flair while honoring the original compositions’ essence. Recorded at Area 51 Studios, The Salentino Cuts serves as a heartfelt homage to the songs and artists that have influenced the band throughout their career.