This CD rocks! It's the kind you want to drive for hours listening to. It sounds totally awesome when you crank it up!
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A definite pop-rock machine, the Craig Kelley Band has released it’s second CD, Tried & True. For the most part, it’s an upbeat collection with great guitar licks by one of the best guitarists in the area. No joke — Craig Kelley reigns as Central Pa’s "Guitar Wars Contest" champion, and David T. Chastain as rated him as Central PA’s number one guitarist three times. Like ballet honing a football player’s technique, Kelley’s degree in classical guitar has given him the raw skill and dexterity. Couple this with his songwriting and you have a recognizable and fun sound. The fun doesn’t stop at the sound, either — the lyrics help to set each song’s tone and to drive the music. The title track could be featured in any one of today’s teen-splashed movies, fast and crazy and spattered with words about some burned-out chic. And, while I never would’ve know had it not been pointed out, "Words of Love" is a fantastic collage of Beatles’ title phrases — and nothing more. Surprisingly, it fits together well, forging one of the better songs on the album. Other tracks, such as "Black Betty" and "Sweet Memory" intertwine a blues flavor with their pop attitude. All in all, the vocals impress, as they’re appropriately rough and sugary. The melodies and harmonies will latch onto your brain if you’re not careful as well. This sound is truly reminiscent of Pittsburgh’s sons The Clarks. Tried & True follows the band’s debut, Still Searching (1997). With Stu Kavolis on bass, Mike Leib on keyboards and guitar, and Steve Sponsellor on drums, Kelley and his band have received accolades both regionally and internationally — Europeans seem to like their sound quite well. Snag the CD and give it a listen. For info, check out the band’s web site at www.craigkelley.com. 
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