An unusually title for a singular artist such as this, John Ondrasik is the lone creator behind "America Town" and one glimpse into the remarkable talent… the advanced mind of a gifted composer, mere analysis is an option we dare not take.

Flighty, catchy and wholly optimistic, "America Town" is heartland style rock founded in the roots of top of the pop classics… nearly folksy at its barest moments, highly industrious in any event.

Past performers come quickly to mind when listening to songs like "Easy Tonight," the buoyant opener, "Superman," and "Something About You…" and not just any past performers but platinum sellers the likes of a Dylan or Petty, and more recently, Matthews.

Five for Fighting, which I feel awkward in repeating now knowing that it's a one man operation, captures the crispness and clarity of AOR and the elegance of pure pop-not for hit radio's sake but for its own historical value before preconceived formulas took the soul out of a richly drawn experience based on matters of fact and gentle intentions.

Ondrasik's vocals, among his many viable instrumental talents, climb far above the average associative folksy singer, easily swinging forth and back from a casual delivery, usually graced by the subtle sounds of a piano or violin bow and that of a determined presence who's point will get across at the costs of anything in existence.

Deep traces of maturity and integrity can be found within the friendly boundaries of "America Town…"

Very ambitious and at a loss for nothing-we get our first real chance to let loose a little bit by the time "Michael Jordan" rolls around and the model based upon icon worship and the whole "I'll be You" mentality.

"America Town" is a pleasant listening experience that does at times manage to get a little too complacent for its own good, but based on what I've heard and the conclusive comparisons to the likes of a John or Joel, it's steeped in the golden moments of a light-hearted pop tradition.

Released by Columbia Records

Review by Vinnie Apicella [va85@columbia.edu]