"No synthesizers, keyboards, or samplers were used in this recording." So states the declaration on the inside of this CD cover. (Did I say "CD cover"? Yes, Fourth Estate is on CD!!!) This needs to be known in advance, for it will make the incredible sounds on this disc seem all the more amazing. Starting off with "Joy," this 12-song disc does what their custom tapes could not--it almost does justice to this talented trio. "Cornerstone" keeps things rolling with an ethereal, "that's got to be a keyboard" sound that begins "Grunt Rock," a groovin' piece with punch, yet enough light-headed action to keep you alert and attentive. What's great about this album is that, not only does it show off the band's chops, the songs are well crafted. My favorites are "Reflections," which is a melodic tune I just love--the guitar is singing baby, ooh yeah!--and "Joy," which is, of course, an adaptation of the J.S. Bach piece. I like these both for the guitar tone, singable melody lines and the emotions felt and provoked by 'em. "Juggernaut" is a rockin' tune that works like coffee and stays in your brain. "Highlander" begins and keeps with a definite Scottish feel (you can picture the bagpipes you think you hear). "Pipedream" features some intensely hot licks, yet has a strong bass line ebb and flow that pulls at your emotions. First, it's contemplative, like the "Routier" intro to "Reflections," and then flows into a midtempo groove that seems to play with your emotions at will (you start to feel like a puppet on strings). Good stuff for the heart and the mind. This disc is so tasty, you'll want to hear it again and again, 'til more history passes, and Volume II comes out!