The dangers of judging a book (or CD) by its cover are obvious. Each and Every one of us has undoubtedly been "ripped off" by purchasing what appeared to be a killer album, only to be less than pleased with the results. Perhaps that's why this instrumental album by one of metal's greatest, if not completely whacked out, guitarists has languished on the shelves and received virtually no press. Together with a bassist who looks like a foreign terrorist and a braided-haired, female drummer, Herr Schenker has surrounded himself with a cast of characters, in the truest sense of the word. Self-financed, promotional copies to magazines were invariable not available, adding to the likelihood The Odd Trio would be overlooked, which is a real shame. Similar in scope to his all acoustic, Thank You album, Schenker (thankfully) lets the guitar do all the talking, and while 'Far Beyond The Ocean' opens unplugged, he's quickly joined by the remainder of the "band," which includes multiple tracked guitars, both acoustic and electric. Capable of producing tons of emotions from the simplest notes, the ten tracks traverse all aspects of hard rock/metal. 'Searching' is filled with tasty uptempo licks, while the bluesy 'Rockin' And Lovin' offers a stylistic journey the guitarist isn't known for, although he pulls it off, effortlessly. Most of the material is upbeat, a rarity in Schenker's life. Listening to 'The Good Old Days' and the predominately acoustic 'In Good Faith' it's impossible not to have a smile grace one's face. It's goodtime, uplifting guitar music. 'It's OK' ends the disc with a jangly guitar and piano accompaniment, the only tune to feature said instrument. Do what you can to secure a copy. Check www.michaelschenker.com for more info.