UFO are an English rock band formed in London in 1968. They are widely regarded as one of the most influential hard rock bands of the 1970s and early 1980s, helping bridge the gap between classic rock and the emerging heavy metal sound.
The band are especially known for the powerful guitar work of Michael Schenker, whose tenure helped define their most acclaimed and influential era.
UFO’s sound is defined by blues-influenced hard rock, soaring melodies, and Schenker’s expressive lead guitar style. Their music evolved from early space rock beginnings into a tighter, riff-focused hard rock and proto-metal identity.
Their influence is particularly strong in the development of NWOBHM and melodic heavy metal.
Phenomenon (1974) – breakthrough album introducing a heavier, more focused hard rock sound and featuring Michael Schenker.
No Heavy Petting (1976) – melodic hard rock release expanding their commercial appeal.
Lights Out (1977) – highly regarded classic featuring a refined, powerful songwriting approach.
Obsession (1978) – darker, more intense album showcasing Schenker’s guitar work at its peak.
The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent (1981) – post-Schenker era release with a more straightforward hard rock direction.
Walk on Water (1995) – reunion album featuring Schenker, returning to a classic melodic hard rock sound.
UFO are considered one of the foundational bands of hard rock and early heavy metal, influencing countless NWOBHM and metal acts through their melodic yet powerful style.
Fans of artists such as Scorpions, Thin Lizzy, and Judas Priest are likely to appreciate UFO’s guitar-driven, melodic hard rock sound.
All UFO releases we carry are official physical formats only, focusing on vinyl and CD editions sourced from authorised labels and distributors.
UFO were part of the early Heavy Metal scene, so if you fancy exploring more like-minded artists, have a look through our HEAVY METAL CATEGORY. You might also like to read our blog on the different subgenres of Metal \m/
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