When you're not from the US, making your presence known here can be a bit of a struggle. Such was the case with the Canadian-based band Big Wreck, who had released their debut album with Atlantic Records. The label, hoping to capitalize the success of the progressive-metal band Dream Theater, had the two bands pair up on DT's "Falling Into Infinity" tour in 1997. The pairing was an odd one; Big Wreck seemed to come from the blues/alternative hard rock vibe (think early Led Zeppelin crossed with Soundgarden) and differed greatly from their headliners' status as progressive metal heavyweights. M. Jarrett agrees, but asks that you not discount the band's skills, stating that "...while boasting some impressive musicianship and craft, Big Wreck wasn't about trying to make it big...they were about making music for people who enjoy good music, and that's mostly what you're going to find on this album." Led by Ian Thornley (lead guitarist, vocalist and main songwriter) the band (who met as students at the Berklee College of Music) spent years honing their craft in Boston, making sure the songs - and the vibe - were perfect. There's real emotion in the lyrics and Ian sings his heart out. There was a hit from the record - The Oaf - which had a some airplay on terrestrial radio (many of you may know this track once you hear it. I'll let Ryo have the final word here, where he states that the album "...is a fantastic record that unfortunately fell victim to the corporate record machine that churned out similar knock offs and allowed bands very little time to form the core following crucial to their success. If you're feeling nostalgic for some solid, mid-90s rock, or you just want to hear some great modern music, I highly recommend you go pick up In Loving Memory Of. It has all the elements that a great rock album needs...". Really, what more needs to be said? Please join us on Tuesday night (August 31st) at 8pm as we spotlight the 1997 debut album by Big Wreck, entitled In Loving Memory Of....