With the release of Chambers and Volumes, I became a true fan of the group Jacobstone. Ever since that release, they gained the attention of established artist and producer Richard Harden. What came about was a concept album with a purpose; a purpose that aimed at creating peaceful and reconciliative dialogue between the competing communities of the Balkan region, where there is little or no constructive contact. This battle has resulted in thousands of deaths, with years of violence and hatred. Regions gives a taste of what's happening out there as you sit comfortably and peacefully in the luxury of your homes.

I am literally in awe. What first comes about is wonder and befuddlement of what this odd piece of music is. What occurs next is the realization of the actuality of hearing sounds of hate and sounds of war, put to sounds of music. The first four tracks are Jacobstone in their normal amazing constitute, which is oddly misplaced, but understandable for receiving backing from the die hard fans (a la, me) enthralled in the project. What arises next is 11 continually running sounds put to music ranging from planes overhead, chanting, shackles, spoken dialogue, and much more. This is truly prophetical and haunting when a war with terrorism is apparent in our own back yard.

You know the saying where it's better to say nothing and be perceived smart, then to speak and say something dumb; well, I think I've half-witted this album enough, so I'll stop here. But, Regions is my first 5 star review, and there is nothing more dubious of that un-pious honor.

- Review date: 8/25/02, written by Blake Garris