MCAULEY SCHENKER GROUP, THE perfect timing RP28-5506

The Melodic Reinvention: McAuley Schenker Group’s ‘Perfect Timing’ (RP28-5506)

Today’s entry focuses on a pivotal moment in the career of the German guitar hero, marking a shift toward a more radio-friendly American sound. We are examining the 1987 Japanese Promo pressing of Perfect Timing by the McAuley Schenker Group, released on EMI with the catalog number RP28-5506.

A New Era for MSG

Released on October 10, 1987, this album officially rebranded the band from the Michael Schenker Group to the McAuley Schenker Group, cementing the partnership between Michael Schenker and Irish vocalist Robin McAuley. Produced by the legendary Andy Johns (known for his work with Led Zeppelin and Van Halen), the album trades the raw heavy metal of Schenker’s earlier work for a polished, melodic hard rock sound typical of the late 80s. Tracks like “Gimme’ Your Love” and “Love Is Not A Game” showcase catchy choruses and AOR sensibilities, though Schenker’s signature flying V guitar work remains a highlight throughout.

Japanese Promo Collector’s Item

This specific copy is a highly collectible Promo Sample.

- Sample Sticker: The rear cover features the official “Sample” sticker (見本品), distinguishing it from standard retail copies.
- Audio Quality: Japanese promos from Toshiba EMI are renowned for their exceptional pressing quality, often using the earliest stampers.

Inclusions

The release comes complete with the original lyric insert, which provides liner notes by Japanese rock critics Masa Itoh and Yuichi Masuda, along with lyrics in both English and Japanese. It is a pristine document of Schenker’s most commercially ambitious period.