JAZZRAPTOR'S SECRET

US artist Jack Foster III, apparently nicknamed Jazzraptor, is out with his fourth album.

I'm not familiar with his previous excursions, but this latest venture is at least partially a very interesting encounter with this self-titled predatorial jazzfan. The most intriguing aspect of this album is the fact that most people will have a hard time tracking down the jazz of course, with lush melodic backdrops more akin to mainstream rock and slightly more embellished varieties of these from the neo-prog family a much more common feature; alongside majestic build-ups from the symphonic rock side of progressive musical universe.

Touches of bluesrock as well as jazz does make the odd appearence though; but for better or worse; depending on musical taste; these contrasting musical elements are slicked down in the overall mix and production.

The end result is a highly melodic, slick affair with a strong mainstream tinge to a stylistic expression blending elements of jazz with listener-friendly progressive rock - music highly suitable for daytime FM radio in my personal opinion.

Despite the title, there is not much of a jazz influence or sound on here although I suppose there is some. Regardless, this is a good album of contemporary progressive rock. Also, I'm not sure it fits neatly into the neo prog category (or as I suggested, the jazz category that other sites have it listed as) but then again it probably doesn't fit neatly into any one category. However, in my opinion, this album is more like crossover prog than neo prog(which is what it is listed as here). I haven't heard the other releases by this artist so those could be different.

Anyway, the music goes through different moods and tempos which means you won't get bored too easily. I'm not sure if this album will ever be considered a classic but there are many fine moments on here nonetheless. The vocals by Jack Foster III remind me somewhat of Freddie Mercury at times and while not nearly as good as the late Queen singer still decent enough. There are some nice keyboards on here and also both acoustic and electric guitar. All the instruments sound well integrated and mixed well. Apparently Trent Gardner of Magellan also helps out on this album but I can't make out any distinct vocals by him. He also plays keyboards on this release. Also, Robert Berry of "3" fame (Keith Emerson's old side project) is credited with vocals, bass and keyboards.

While the music on here is pleasant enough and there some very good moments, over all it doesn't really grab me the way it should given the obvious talent that is on here. There's a lot of interesting things going on here but for me personally it never really quite gets there. A nice album nonetheless though.