Control and Resistance

Considered to be one of the founders of the progressive metal genre made popular by bands like Dream Theater and Fates Warning, Watchtower did not stay together long enough to reap the benefits of their creativity. Their first recording, Energetic Disassembly, hinted at their innovations and talent, but it was Control and Resistance that marked the arrival of a fresh and important voice in the history of both progressive rock and heavy metal. Drawing heavily from bands such as Rush, Queensryche, Metallica, Yngwie Malmsteen, and fusion bands, Watchtower carved out a distinctive sound by combining the most extreme elements of their influences. The result was a series of complex, dark, and heavy songs that would eventually become the blueprint for progressive metal. Guitarist Ron Jarzombek, who replaced Billy White, brings a Holdsworth influence with him, which adds to the music's diversity. While averting commercial success, the band is typically cited as groundbreaking by their peers. The music herein may sound dated, especially the falsetto vocals of Alan Tecchio, but there is enough here to appreciate and enjoy both from a historical and musical perspective. ~ Robert Taylor