"Misdemeanor", released in 1985, marked a new chapter for UFO after the turmoil of their previous tour. Following the disbandment, Phil Mogg relocated to Los Angeles, where he connected with guitarist Atomik Tommy M. and bassist Paul Gray. They aimed to form a new iteration of UFO, bringing in former keyboardist Paul Raymond and drummer Robbie France.
With producer Nick Tauber at the helm, the band recorded Misdemeanor, showcasing a more polished and contemporary sound. However, just before recording began, France left the group, leading to the addition of Jim Simpson on drums. The album reflects a blend of hard rock and melodic elements but received mixed reviews. During a US tour supporting the album, Raymond exited the band, and David Jacobson stepped in as his replacement for the remainder of the tour. Despite the challenges, Misdemeanor continues to represent UFO's resilience and adaptability in the face of change.