Hi,
first off I just want to congratulate you on your new album
“Drama Of The Ages. Great to have you guys back …
James - Thanks.
I
know the album hasn't been released yet, but have you had any kind
of response from the media? And what are your own expectations for
this album?
James - The
response thus far seems to be favorable. We expect this album to
be well received and do really well in sales.
The
band has gone thru a few changes since your last album “Theater
Of War” was released. What happened and why did David Taylor
leave the band?
James - After
"Theater Of War" we returned to the original members. Dave wanted to
focus more on his family and decided to bow out. We are still
friends and communicate with him.
Was
it hard to find a suitable replacement for David Taylor, and what
were you looking for in a new vocalist?
James - It
took a long time to audition and make a decision. We were not
looking for a Dave clone. We were looking for power, passion and
dedication.
I
think Chaz Bond fits your style very well, and you have found a
good replacement for David in him. Chaz’ style is not that far
from David’s, but he is a bit more raw and aggressive in his
singing – did that have any effect on your song writing?
James - Most
of the songs were already structured when Chaz came in. When we
heard his voice with the music we really liked how well he blended
and enhanced the sound. The rawness and aggression I think goes
hand in hand with his passion
When
I listen to your music, I hear one band above all as your
inspiration source: Iron Maiden. But I do also hear references to
inspiration from mid 80’s bands like Queensr˙che (early),
Lethal, Oliver Magnum or Deadly Blessing – how do you feel about
that? And how would like to describe your music? A lot of people
would simply label it power metal, but I think there’s more to
it that just that …
James - Iron
Maiden and Queensr˙che were bands some of us grew up with, but are
by no means our soul influence. Our music results from each member
having different backgrounds and musical interests and melting
them together. It is not our intent to try to sound like anyone
except Jacobs Dream. I guess I would describe the music as
powerful, melodic and having lyrical integrity.
Who
writes the music, is it a group effort – walk us thru the
creation of a Jacob's Dream song …
James - Most
songs start as someone bringing an idea or riff and we all start
jamming it and adding our individual influences. Some songs have
been brought in as complete ideas but usually get altered a bit.
Who
takes care of the lyrics – and what do you deal with in your
songs and why?
James - John
Berry and Chaz spend a lot of time on Lyrics and we will offer
suggestions on how to alter and improve them. Topics vary. We deal
with things we see and are affected by. We also try to show, that
there is hope no matter how bleak things may seem.
Where
have you recorded the album and who has produced and mixed it? And
how do you feel about the result?
James - The
album was recorded in our studio and produced by us. Rick May did
the mix down and Joe Viers did the mastering. I think we ended up
with a quality product, that any listener will appreciate listening
straight through and hitting the repeat button.
Who
has done the artwork for the album? Is there a deeper idea behind
the concept? And is it as important to have a cool cover today as
it was back when metal was on vinyl (still is to a degree I know)?
James - The
artwork was done by Bret Melvin. The idea is that there was a lot
of time between "Theater Of War" and now, but also, that the music
itself is timeless.
I
had the pleasure of watching you guys live at Wacken in 2000, how
was it to be standing in front of such a crowd? And can you try to
put words on the feeling of playing such a big festival in Europe?
James - We
loved playing there. The fans are awesome and really support all
the bands. It feels great to feed off of all the energy. Standing
in front of the crowd is very satisfying because it is the reward
for a lot of hours spent rehearsing.
You
have toured
Europe
once (with Brainstorm & Armored Saint) – that must have been
a huge experiences for you, what impressions did that leave with
you?
James - We
had a lot of fun doing that tour and look forward to going out
again. As far as impressions, I just think it’s great that so
many people come out and support their bands.
Do
you have any touring plans in the near future, or does it all
depend a bit on sales?
James - I
am sure sales will have some affect as far as overseas is
concerned. The money has to come from somewhere. We hope to hit
the road in the states as well. I believe the sales will
accommodate us getting to
Europe
though.
One
thing I have to ask you about – who came up with the idea of the
hidden track at the end of the album? And is there a reason why
it’s included on the album, but not mentioned?
James - I
had the idea to do the song and
Gary
had the idea to hide it. It is included because it’s a project I
wanted to do for a long time and we decided now was a good time.
As far as mentioning it, now that wouldn't be much fun, would it?
This
is your 3rd album on Metal Blade Records, how many
albums is your deal for? And are you pleased with the cooperation
with the label?
James - The
contract was for four albums. We have had good experience
working with them. They handle a lot of publicity and that's a
full time job. Obviously, for them to wait four years for an
album there must be Good cooperation.
I
know the Ohio
metal scene normally only produces very good metal bands, why do
you think that is … is it something in the water … LOL? Is
there a strong connection between the bands in Ohio?
James - What
is this strange new
Ohio
you speak of? LOL! We know some other bands, but I don't
necessarily see a strong connection between all. I think most are
just trying to do their own thing and get ahead.
To
finish things off – do you have any famous last words?
James - We
love you all and hope to see you all very soon. KEEP IT METAL!!!!
Good
luck in the future!
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