When Marcel Jacob started working on his new project, he initially called it “Guitars on Fire,” which he later renamed and became known as Talisman.
From an early age, Marcel showed a natural musical talent. He began his career alongside Yngwie Malmsteen and was briefly part of Force, later known as Europe. During this time, he co-wrote “The King Will Return” and “Scream of Anger” with Joey Tempest.
Marcel rejoined Yngwie Malmsteen and recorded “Marching Out” and appearing on VHS/LaserDisc “Live in Japan 1985” and toured between ’84-´86 before returning to Sweden.
Back in Sweden, he found out that John Norum had left Europe and was asked to join his solo project. Marcel went on to record Total Control, where he co-wrote the majority of the songs on the album.
Creative differences — and Norum’s plans to work with Glenn Hughes — led Marcel to pursue his own direction.
Marcel started recording demos that later became songs on Talisman’s debut album.
Marcel then brought in Jeff Scott Soto on vocals, and together they recorded the debut album.
The first single “I’ll Be Waiting” was a major success and followed by a tour..
The line-up later changed, with Fredrik Åkesson (Opeth) and later Jamie Borger (Treat) joining, completing the band ahead of several subsequent releases.
Marcel Jacob passed away on July 21, 2009 — far too early. He is remembered as an exceptional musician, songwriter, and highly talented bass player.
2019, the remaining members released “Never Die (A Song for Marcel)” as a tribute and in 2024, they followed with “Save Our Love,” marking what would have been Marcels 60th birthday.
The band also performed a tribute show at Sweden Rock Festival the same year.