"Covenant" is the fifteenth studio album by the British rock band UFO. Released in July 2000, the album marked the return of founding member and lead guitarist Michael Schenker to the band. The first half of "Covenant" comprises new studio tracks, while the second half features live recordings captured in 1995 during the band's "Walk on Water" tour.
Michael Schenker, after a turbulent period of exiting and rejoining the band multiple times, had finally taken a longer break, marking "Covenant" as a momentous return to UFO. This provided a fresh breath of creativity and innovation, with Schenker’s iconic guitar work blending seamlessly with long-time vocalist Phil Mogg's distinctive voice.
The album was met with generally positive reviews, critics praising the record's blend of hard-edged rock, bluesy undertones, and the non-nostalgic modern approach to the band's classic sound. The live tracks in the album also showcase the band's energetic and invigorating performances on stage.
Key tracks from the album include "Unraveled", "Midnight Train" and "The Love Inside You". Despite their trials, the relationship between Mogg and Schenker remained a fertile ground for compelling music, as demonstrated by the melodic and harmonious tunes in "Covenant".
In conclusion, "Covenant" can be seen as a pivotal moment in UFO’s career, showcasing a band that remained resilient and adaptable throughout the years, capable of delivering a powerful blend of rock music combined with touching lyrical content.
