J.R.B Symphony (Eric Gillette of Neal Morse Band) – Inception (2022)
JRB Symphony was formed by songwriters Jaume Bacardit (drums) and Joan Roman (guitars, bass), two young musicians influenced by the likes of Neal Peart, John Petrucci, Paul Gilbert, but also admirers of all the Rock styles from the last fifty years. The project “J.R.B Symphony” started few years ago and while there was a few songs already composed, both Jaume & Joan felt they need a talented musician to complete the line-up.
Entering virtuoso multi-instrumentalist Eric Gillette (Neal Morse Band). Gillette not only was involved into the arrangements and performing keyboards – he handles all the lead vocals on JRB Symphony’s debut album “Inception”. Eric is one of the innate talents of the new generation of progressive musicians, and it is incredible to see and hear the great contribution his vocals bring to this album, taking the experience to another level.
“Inception” blends progressive rock with metal, hard rock, and there’s also a melodic rock / pop-rock feel on this intelligent record.
Gillette’s excellent contribution is noticeable from the first moment of opener “New Life”, where Eric brings his characteristic melancholic and emotional timbre to a composition full of life and passion. The level of detail that the musicians handle when building these songs is admirable, nothing is done lightly.
And as the album progresses we realize that although we can classify it under the Progressive Metal label , there is much more here than that, mainly noting the influence of classic Hard Rock that generate hooky and direct compositions, in addition to the factor of virtuosity.
There are memorable riffs, strong choruses and a feeling of latent glory throughout the album, and we’re pleased to discover this more ‘straight rock’ facet of Eric Gillette, showcasing he was the perfect choice to give voice to this great set of songs – he even puts several of his already characteristic “c’mon!” at places.
Although we talk a lot about Gillette and the leading role he has on the album, kudos to Bacardit and Roman whom have been building this “Inception” for a few years when they started the project at the end of 2018.
And the results are visible, with an album very well written, produced & mixed with many elements in its favour, especially if we take into account all the stages they went through in this long process.
If you like melodic Progressive Metal with extra spices, great vocal arrangements, cool twists and turns, as well as riff-oriented songs with a lot of nice choruses and themes that can extend and take you through various atmospheres, give “Inception” a listen, a different and good record with something for everyone.
Highly Recommended
01 – New Life
02 – Come And Save Me
03 – Eternal Lost
04 – Among Thieves
05 – Path To Victory
06 – Worst Nightmare
07 – Parallel Worlds
08 – Global Threat
09 – Reasons To Fight
Joan Roman – guitars, bass
Jaume Bacardit – drums
Eric Gillette (Neal Morse Band) – vocals, keyboards
BUY
www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09PTLB19K
