BEN JACKSON
"Here
I Come" (Jaxhammer; 2001)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
Ben Jackson is one of Crimson Glory's founding members although you probably wouldn't know it from his solo album, "Here I Come." Whereas Crimson Glory is high-tech, sophisticated sci-fi rock'n'roll, "Here I Come" is definitely not. Instead, it's an album of music that sounds somewhat based in 80's metal (i.e., Poison, Warrant, etc.) with more heart than hard-on. It's an enjoyable and very personal album from a true rock shredder.
This is going to sound strange, but the album that "Here I Come" most reminded me of is Ace Frehley's solo album, way back in the days when the make-up had never come off. It doesn't really sound like Frehley's record (which was raw and rough and powered by pure testosterone) but the songs sound like they were written by someone who doesn't really get to express his true emotions and varied talent very often, and finally gets the chance here.
In other words, "Here I Come" is much more personal than Jackson's work in Crimson Glory and not quite as edgy, either. That's not necessarily a bad thing - it just depends on what you're in the mood for. Headbanging: Crimson Glory. Introspection: Ben Jackson.
Performing on "Here I Come" are: Ben Jackson - lead vocals, guitar, bass; Rich Tabor - drums, percussion; John Bajas - guitar. Guests include Jeff Lords - bass; Duane Freeman - sax solo; Jesse (Martillo) Rojas - percussion.
For more information, check out http://www.benjacksongroup.com/.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2003 by R. Scott
Bolton. All rights reserved.
Revised: 12 Mar 2024 12:56:41 -0500.
