Traxter
When we talk about early christian Metal groups, there are a number of bands that can be considered good and then there are a some that are on a completely different level. Traxter falls into the latter being one of the best bands these ears have heard within the Heavy Metal genre. Traxter hails from Bakersfield, California and was formed back in the early 90's by Frontman-Terrence Steven Fischer. Traxter brings to the table a brilliant mix of energetic 80's inspired Heavy Metal.
In 1991 Traxter released their debut full-length album titled 'Rock 'N Race' on the Lordz record label. The album was originally mixed at Paradise Studio in Sacramento, CA. The cover art was originally design by Glen Harding who got his inspiration from track-6 "J.S.N."(see left side of cover art) which encourages listeners to just say no to drugs and alcohol. 'Rock 'N Race' has been out of publication for many years now making this rare gem nearly impossible to find today. This is one of the biggest reasons why most Metal fans have probably not heard of this California based band.
Shortly after the release of their debut, Traxter began putting together material for a second follow-up album but unfortunately they disbanded in 1992 before it could be realized.
In 2019 Roxx Records re-issued Traxter's 1991 debut full-length album 'Rock N' Race'. All tracks have been remastered by Rob Colwell of Bombworks Sound and updated cover art, design, and layout are courtesy of Scott Waters of No Life Til Metal Graphics. On this 2019 re-issue the cover art was revived with more vivid colors and Traxter's logo was emboldened along with the addition of - 'The Finish Line'. This re-issue also includes a bonus track called "Lovin' Star" which was recorded live by the band and was intended for their follow-up album that never materialized.
I just can't say enough about Vocalist-Terrence Fischer and his mind blowing performance on this release. So that one can begin to grasp just what we are talking about here, Fischer's delivery draws strong comparison to the well known vocalist-Vince Neil(Mötley Crüe). However, the depth of talent & diversity only broadens due to there being some tracks where Fischer's vocal styles bring to mind none other than Axl Rose(Guns N' Roses). From track to track the listener will notice subtle changes in Fischer's delivery along with all the right hooks to keep one coming back for more.
The guitar work from shredders - Terrence Steven Fischer & Leonard Bennett is second to none and includes everything from driving guitar play to Power Metal riffs to Tapping to Progressive intensity building guitar play to 80's style noodling and all rounded out with some acoustic guitar play. The guitar section garners some additional recognition by means of two different instrumental tracks where the guitars are featured including track-5 "The Flight" and track-10 "Traxter".
Lyrics are Christ centered and show the band's love for the Lord
as one can see in the following lyric excerpts:
as one can see in the following lyric excerpts:
"Holy Rockin"
I know the end is near
I feel it in my blood
But there's no need for fear
I got the love from above
Till I leave, "We're Holy Rockin"
Till I say bye, bye
Go and be with my Lord
"Turn And Face"
See the light while you got the time
Change your course
Turn and face the Lord Jesus
Seek the face of the Lord
"Come To Open Arms"
Empty heart and no where to turn
Lonely, caring no, no, no, more for life
Lonely, but there's a way
Seems like the prodigal son
Takes all the money and make the big run
But you find yourself falling again
Please remember Jesus is there
And He don't want you lonely no more
"Honest Report"
I know a love seeks out the souls of men
This kind of love there seems to be no end
Sacrificing a dear one on a cross
Won't never, never double cross
And I'm hungry for love, Jesus kind of love
Love round the world
I know this love, it changed my heart one day
And through this love my sins washed away
A bloody cross a man died for me
Now, knowing truth I'm so, so free
I know the end is near
I feel it in my blood
But there's no need for fear
I got the love from above
Till I leave, "We're Holy Rockin"
Till I say bye, bye
Go and be with my Lord
"Turn And Face"
See the light while you got the time
Change your course
Turn and face the Lord Jesus
Seek the face of the Lord
"Come To Open Arms"
Empty heart and no where to turn
Lonely, caring no, no, no, more for life
Lonely, but there's a way
Seems like the prodigal son
Takes all the money and make the big run
But you find yourself falling again
Please remember Jesus is there
And He don't want you lonely no more
"Honest Report"
I know a love seeks out the souls of men
This kind of love there seems to be no end
Sacrificing a dear one on a cross
Won't never, never double cross
And I'm hungry for love, Jesus kind of love
Love round the world
I know this love, it changed my heart one day
And through this love my sins washed away
A bloody cross a man died for me
Now, knowing truth I'm so, so free
Around the world Metal fans have something to get excited about with this re-issue by Roxx Records. Traxter has delivered up a top of the line Metal offering that is sure to, once again, capture the attention of the christian Metal community. Don't let this one-time special pressing of only 500 copies pass you by. Traxter's 'Rock N' Race - The Finish Line' will be In stock by June 19th 2019.
Purchases can be made at any of the following links:
Musicians:
Terrence Steven Fischer - Lead Vocals/Guitars
Leonard Bennett - Guitars/Backing Vocals
Bobby del Rey - Bass/Backing Vocals
Darrin Lee Kirkindoll - Drums
Terrence Steven Fischer - Lead Vocals/Guitars
Leonard Bennett - Guitars/Backing Vocals
Bobby del Rey - Bass/Backing Vocals
Darrin Lee Kirkindoll - Drums
(Below - Original Recording)