I don't normally do reviews on local media, but I just couldn't resist this one. About a week or so ago, I stopped into my local bar to see a band I have been hearing quite a bit about. I just happened to know the singer/guitar player Fred Nelson and am familiar with Jeff Thurston (vocals/guitar) as well. Knowing the talent, I figured I was in for a show. Unfortunately, I was only able to stay for a partial set. But, I was so impressed with what I heard (and saw) that within a week, I went out to purchase the CD. Let me tell you, this is one of the most versatile rock bands that has ever come out of Pittsburgh. In a way, they are so much different than anything being played on the radio today, yet they have a style and image that would fit in with any of the bigger bands today. From heavy hitters like "You Ain't Nothing" and "Apocalyptic", to more of a pop flavor tunes with "Dynamite" and "I'll Never Take You Back". Throw in some more modern sounding songs like "Sunlight (burns)" and (a heavy sided Goo Goo Dolls-ish) "Stay Away" and mix in top notch tracks like "Canterbury Love Affair", "I Died In Rock and Roll" and a rock epic like "James Is A Superstar" and you've got one of the most diverse rock albums of the year 2000. Not signed yet, and still playing the clubs, but it won't be too long before this CD gets noticed and the country will know these local boys from the Burgh (which also features Rusted Root bass player Patrick Norman and dynamic drummer Brian Palmer). One big surprise to me was Fred's vocals. I knew him most from being a lead guitar player and singing a few songs here and there, but his style on this CD (and I really don't mead to be blasphemous in a rock and roll sense) really reminded me a lot of Freddie Mercury. Now, not on every tune, but on most of them. Whether influenced or not, it comes through on such songs as "Canterbury...", ""Dynamite" and "I Died In Rock and Roll". Songs stick in your head like maple syrup. And with such a range of styles, there's something for everybody. This may sound like they haven't picked a style to stick with, but believe me, when you listen to all of the songs, they gel. Too Tall Jones is too big for Pittsburgh. I rate this CD a 9. Great job guys!