Search - Petra :: Jekyll & Hyde

Petra's return to glory

Robert Rodriguez | [Scream for me] Dallas, Texas | 03/13/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Petra - Jekyll And Hyde -



My first memories of pop music fan dome go back to the late 70's when I'd observe my mother washing dishes in the kitchen. She'd always have the windows open and the breeze and sun would shine into the house. She'd work diligently while beautifully singing along to that little transistor radio on the window ledge. It was always set to the local gospel station that would play contemporary Christian rock and traditional gospel standards.



Petra was the first band that got my attention while mom did the chores and they were the first "God rock" band my mother and I "agreed on". I have followed them religiously (no pun intended) since 1983 when they released their breakthrough album Not Of This World. In 1984 Petra's Beat The System Tour was the first full-scale rock show (complete with lights, lazers, and smoke) I'd ever seen - barely beating Motley Crue and Ratt for the battle of my live rock cherry (and possibly my soul).



Formed in 1974. Petra was a "Chistian Rock Band" before the term existed. They paved the way for bands like Chevelle, P.O.D. and Creed while never watering-down their Gospel-based message. The band has gone through many changes including a swap in lead singers in the mid 80's. Their style has changed/evolved over the years and their music has always (well, almost always) remained relevant.



In the secular world of music, the band could be compared to Kiss, Aerosmith, and Metallica. Some would say they're past their peak and have already made their mark. Some would say that like a fine wine or good marriage, they simply get better with age. In my opinion, their last couple of albums sounded like their age was catching up with them. However, Jekyll and Hyde marks Petra's return to great, melodic, heavy rock with a message - It's their best album in years.



By the way..in case you're wondering: PETRA means ROCK.



Robert Miguel Rodriguez

Scream For Me Dallas Productions"

Great, but not memorable.

K. Willey | Orrington, ME USA | 04/06/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I enjoy the thrashing sounds of this disc, but this is less of a product of Petra and more like the product of Petra hiring the Newsboys to produce their album. One song, "Woulda Coulda Shoulda," completely bears the makings of a Newsboys song. It is interesting to see what happens when Peter Furler gives Petra "cool" lessons and shows them how to completely ditch all the musical styles they once knew. Jekyll and Hyde is interesting, but not worthy of being Petra's final album."