Flotsam and Jetsam High Era Biography
1997
Eric A.K. - vocals
Jason B. Ward - bass
Ed Carlson - guitar
Mike Gilbert - guitar
Kelly Smith - drums
It's 8:00. A commanding din emerging from the Flotsam and Jetsam
jam pad fills the lot. Musicians from neighboring practice
spaces cease their tinkering to locate its source. Upon entering
the courtyard, the sneak-a-peak audience is annihilated by the
over-powering, all-consuming, razor-blade laced ear-candy that
can only be described as "Flotsam Magic." There couldn't be a
collection of members more diverse able to come together weeks
unseen and play with such precision. It seems the connection
lies solely within the music, high above any conscious motive.
This may explain Flotsam and Jetsam's ability to rise above
personal tragedies and record label hell and soar beyond
expectations.
With their latest creation, aptly titled High, the band return
to their roots. Metal Blade Records, where they recorded their
first release, Doomsday for the Deceiver (1986,) brings the boys
back home to redefine traditional metal. While the music of High
bears an edge that could rival any thunder-boasting recording,
it holds the refinement of evolution through five previous
albums: Doomsday... (Metal Blade-1986,) No Place for Disgrace
(Elektra-1988,) When the Storm Comes Down (MCA-1990,) Cuatro
(MCA-1992,) and Drift (MCA-1995.) Superior bass riffs provided
by Jason B. Ward and the precision drumming of Kelly Smith supply
a powerful foundation. Exceptional guitar work by Ed Carlson and Mike Gilbert far exceeds any prior recording. In songs like
"Lucky Day" and "Monster," Carlson masterfully explores new
realms. Vocalist Eric A.K. also reaches new heights with the
help of Eric (long-time "sixth member") Braverman's knowing
lyrics. Never before has he attained such rich tones, allowing
a full-bodied finish to each song. Recorded at Vintage Records
in Phoenix, AZ, with the help of master control man Bill Metoyer, High hits so close to home it presents itself as a quintessential
part of 90's music.
Despite the recent departure of Kelly Smith, who has moved on to
pursue other talents, Flotsam and Jetsam advance, stride
unbroken and stronger than ever. They've toughened attitudes and
convictions. Their message this time is simple; get heavy, get
hard, get high.