The rolling series of enhanced UFO back catalogue reissues is set to continue with The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent to be released on 1 May 2026 together with a previously unreleased live performance from Hammersmith Odeon in 1981. I still have the tour programme……!
For me, TWTWATI is UFO’s finest and most consistent work. Paul Chapman’s second album with the band. He really makes his mark here. Check out in particular his solo on Profession of Violence.
Paul Raymond had gone to reconnect with Michael Schenker in MSG and in came Neil Carter who added much to the mix.
The result – eight tracks of majestic, powerful, hard yet melodic rockers. For me, the four albums Chapman was with UFO for surpass the Schenker years and in particular TWTWATI. A truly sublime album and a done deal timeless classic.
So, so good it’s now getting the deluxe treatment. I’ve received a media release about it with the details. Here it is:
Chrysalis Records are proud to present the latest in the acclaimed UFO reissue series: the classic 1981 album ‘The Wild, The Willing and The Innocent’.
Reissued on stunning 3LP tri-fold sleeve 180gm vinyl and 2CD Digipak formats on 1st May 2026, the album now sounds more dynamic and detailed than ever, thanks to new remastering from the original tape transfers.
Originally released on 16th January 1981, this pivotal album captures the band at a creative high point, blending soaring melodies, powerful performances, and Phil Mogg’s unmistakable voice. The lineup had modified a little with the debut of keyboardist/guitarist Neil Carter, replacing Paul Raymond. Carter also supplied backing vocal and saxophone on ‘Lonely Heart.
Lead singer Phil Mogg recalled, “Neil had a box of tricks. Getting the backing vocals was great, though I still don’t think he’s forgiven me for making him play saxophone. He was a great add to the band. Plus, he was a nice bloke.”
Drummer Andy Parker said “Neil was just an incredible musician. He brought another energy into the band.”
This deluxe edition also includes a brand-new mix of the previously unreleased Live at the Hammersmith Odeon, recorded on 29th January 1981, by Brian Kehew, offering an electrifying snapshot of UFO’s energy on stage. Original 7” edits of the two singles “Couldn’t Get It Right” and “Lonely Heart” released with this album are included as well as an alternative mix of album standout “It’s Killing Me”.
Quick aside – here’s Makin’ Moves. Such a memorable riff.
The set is rounded out with newly written liner notes by Michael Hann, featuring fresh interviews with Phil Mogg and Andy Parker, alongside a collection of previously unseen photographs from the era — making it an essential addition for fans and collectors alike. “The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent is, hands down, the best UFO studio album: it’s melodic, it’s experimental, it’s memorable, and it rocks. It was the perfect encapsulation of everything UFO could be.”
UFO ‘The Wild, The Willing and The Innocent’ (2026 Remaster – Deluxe Edition) is released on double CD and 3LP on 1st May 2026 on Chrysalis Records.
Order link: https://ufo.lnk.to/TWTWATI
Full review to follow on release.
The similar treatment given to No Place to Run last year was a real treat. I can hardly contain myself that we now have TWTWATI coming in a couple of months form time of posting.
I hope in due course that we may get Mechanix and Making Contact.
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