Unleashed Power

Unleashed Power is a Christian progressive thrash/power metal act founded by Danish and American musicians. Formed sometime in the late 80's. In their early years they were based in New York City, New York. Later, they relocated to Copenhagen, Denmark and have been based there permanently.
Ken Jacobsen (formerly known as Ken Jack) is truly the mastermind behind U.P. (Unleashed Power). From writing mind-tangling, socially-relevant lyrics to performing intricate guitar riffs and breaks, Jacobsen has been the driving force demanding excellence from himself and the other band members. From the debut album "Quintet of Spheres" to the demanding "Mindfailure" and the most recent E.P. "Absorbed", Jacobsen has been the songwriter and producer of the material. Born in Copenhagen, Denmark, but raised throughout Europe and the U.S., Jacobsen's international perspective and experience is evident in his writing, playing, and producing. He has never stayed within the traditional heavy metal confines that manyKen Live other bands have fallen captive to. In addition U.P. is widely considered to be one of the premiere innovative, technically cutting edge bands of the times.
Unfortunately, the band has not only experienced triumphant highs. In the summer of 1994, 27-year-old bassist, John Lievano faced a tragic death by breaking his neck in a freak train accident. Drummer Ed Owen's disillusionment with the destitute prospect of finding a replacement and recording another album, sans label, culminated with his departure. A new era for U.P. - Unleashed Power was imminent.
Ken - who had long been familiar with Jörg Michael's drumming on the classic Mekong Delta albums initiated contact. Jörg's chops and experience infused U.P.'s songs with a new dimension of verve and punch. Although the material would stretch his abilities to the limit, Jörg enthusiastically embraced this new challenge. Since he yearned to play heavy progressive material once more, the talks became reality culminating with the two spending time in Germany rehearsing and recording the drum tracks for the "Mindfailure" CD in a WW II bunker.
The course was now set for a heavier, heartier sound, but ex-singer John Mathias realized he did not desire to pursue this new punishing style of music. Enter Brian T. Chaffee, a vocalist that leaves a lasting impression, the natural choice for a replacement. Brian's talents and flexible, gut-wrenching vocal style was an appreciated addition to the lineup.
One of the reasons U.P. can repeatedly produce intensely forceful music is the band's thorough commitment to impeccable performance and musical quality. During the 1995 Mindfailure recording, band members were reputed to have done outrageous acts to maintain the focus, dexterity and strength required to sustain the level of excellence they expected of themselves.
The sudden death of former U.P. bassist, John Lievano, prompted the search for another bassist. Jörg introduced Tony Spagone to Ken after the two met at a rehearsal session in Germany. Tony Spagone's appearance would only be as a session player, and New Yorker John Balistreri would eventually join as a band member.

R.I.P. John Lievano: December 30, 1966 - July 15, 1994