Jacobs Dream - Jacobs Dream (2000)
There is not a whole lot to say about this cd except that it simply rocks! The sound and style can most accurately be described as early Queensryche meets Iron Maiden. The songs are infectious, melodic and full of power. One track reminds me of the 80's power/thrash band Manilla Road. With the massive onslaught and resurgence of power metal recently, I was actually expecting this cd to sound second rate but that is definitely not the case. The musicianship is top notch, the songs are structured well, and the production is superb. Although the vocals are remniscent of other bands they are done very well and the music is quite original and progressive. I highly recommend this to power fans around the globe. -- Review by Norm
The major label debut of Jacobs Dream is nothing short of spectacular! The band is made up of David Taylor on vocals, Gary Holtzman on guitar, John Berry on guitar, James Evans on bass and Rick May on drums. The band offers forth some outstanding metal on this effort. Fans of power metal should rejoice after hearing this cd. The guitars are in overdrive on this power metal feast and the vocals exert a great deal of power. This melodic album is laced with great hooks and intense power. Holtzman and Berry do a good job mixing the melodic and power parts on this cd. The hooks are infectious and further draws the listeners interest. The band puts forth a great technical metal effort while not getting lost in the desire to be technical. The production is better than on the indie release and makes the songs jump out at the listener. The drums are excellent and give the band some more power than it had. Taylors vocals are excellent on this releaes as well. He manages to pull off what many power metal vocalists cannot as the high pitched vocals are well done but do not get annoying. He is the same league with Rob Rock. While not as complex or fast as some bands, the drums play a good part in the compositions. Songs include Kinescope, Funambulism, Scape Goat, Mad House of Cain, Tale of Fears, Crusade, Black Watch, Love & Sorrow, The Gathering, Never Surrender, The Bleeding Tree and Violent Truth. The lyrics are very clear as to who the band sings about. A definite treat for those into power metal and an excellent album to get. -- Alex Mull