In the Midst of Beauty

In the Midst of Beauty is a work on which, around Michael Schenker’s songcraft-filled lead guitar, the dynamism of classic hard rock is sounded with a modern, clear outline. That Gary Barden, who thrived on the early masterpieces, returned to vocals again also drew great attention among fans. In hook-focused writing, his guitar phrases function to beautifully push up the melody, not to show off technique. From the powerful drive of the opener “City Lights” and the dashing “Competition” to the lyrical “I Want You,” every song is full of the mature appeal of Schenker and Barden, while cuts like “End of the Line” and “Wings of Emotion” convey the work’s fullness. Soaring vocals and a thick rhythm section firmly catch Schenker’s guitar. Its appeal is giving both fast rock numbers and mellow ballads a natural, sure lift cultivated over a long career. On which the fine old duo reunites and again proves its good musical chemistry, it is a mature, fulfilling work that pulls together the rich lyricism and sharpness cultivated over a long career without hesitation — Barden’s singing warm.