Legendary German guitarist Michael Schenker has released a statement paying tribute to Ted McKenna - the drummer of his 'Michael Schenker Fest' band who sadly passed away last month.

The 'Fest' project began two years ago when Schenker reunited with three of his original Michael Schenker Group (MSG) singers - Gary Barden, Graham Bonnett and Robin McAuley - as well as other MSG alumni: McKenna, bass player Chris Glen and guitar/keyboard player Steve Mann for a limited run of shows in Japan. These gigs were captured on the 'Live In Tokyo' CD/DVD and led to further touring then a studio album last year, entitled Resurrection.

In early January it was announced work was beginning on a second studio album which would again feature all three singers, along with Schenker's Temple Of Rock vocalist Doogie White, and the same backing band. The tragic loss of McKenna came as a shock to all.

"We are totally heartbroken to hear about Ted McKenna - our amazing drummer and dearest friend - passing away" says Schenker in a press release via his record company, Nuclear Blast. "It’s a massive shock and a huge loss to lose Ted so suddenly. He always had a smile on his face and was one of the most sincerely genuine people you could ever have the pleasure of meeting. One of the great rock drummers, he always played from the heart and his heart was music. Rest in peace Ted, we will miss you."

With the wheels already in motion and recording underway on the album the band have had to move quickly to find a replacement for the drummer, and have at least managed to 'keep it in the family' as they also announced today the return of two other former MSG sticksmen to fill in.

Drummer Simon Phillips who played on the original 'Michael Schenker Group' album will feature as the main drummer on the new album, while Bodo Schopf will take over on the upcoming US tour due to Phillips having previous commitments. Schopf played on the albums 'Perfect Timing' and 'Save Yourself' along with Robin McAuley and Steve Mann in the subtly renamed McAuley Schenker Group in the late 80's.

Schenker goes on, "We are very grateful to Bodo for being a team player and working out with Simon what needs to be done in order for us to continue as smooth as possible and also to Simon for helping us to make it all possible. Bodo is the perfect choice to continue as the permanent drummer for Michael Schenker Fest. It is a perfect balance between the musicians from the past. It includes everything as a family to continue Michael Schenker Fest."

"I am very sorry that Ted had to leave us under these tragic circumstances" says Schopf, "I'm proud to rock for him and all the MICHAEL SCHENKER FEST fans. RIP Ted.”

Watch the video for MSF's 'Take Me To The Church' here: .be">

Author: Cameron Arndt

Cameron Arndt is a musician and freelance writer from Glasgow, Scotland. He writes for his own music review website (www.rockandrolltraffic.com) and also contributes to Music Talkers.