Jester Race

AMG Review of Jester Race

Matthew Kantor
All Music Guide

The melodic sensibilities, classical-style guitar, and modal dexterity employed on The Jester Race have precursors in Iron Maiden, Dio-era Black Sabbath, and Judas Priest. It is doubtful that In Flames would argue this; they lovingly weave these timeless influences throughout their music, combining them with later-day thrash and death metal sounds. The vocals differ from the operatic Halford/Dickinson style, in that they are gravel-throated and growled, dealing with personal issues as opposed to fantasy. And indeed, many of the tempos are fast and tight, recalling the glory days of late-'80s speed. However, The Jester Race does not feel rushed -- it takes time to make its statements, not afraid to hit midtempo strides or get lost in the aforementioned melodic explorations, but always with a bite. The result is a definitive late-'90s take on power metal; cohesive, heartfelt, and heavy.