"'Tis the season for new releases. Amidst the rush of full-length projects. Fuel's four-song EP 'Hazleton' is a breath of fresh air. It's simply designed to provide a taste of sounds to come."

"'Three of those songs will be on the next record. Thas should be ready by the middle of February or early March,' said guitarist Carl Bell in a phone interview from his Middletown home."

"The new material by the Mechanicsburg band was penned by Bell and recorded at C&C Music Works in Hazleton (PA). Initially, it was not destined for the public, but to satisfy label Sony 550's request for copies of new material."

"Completing 11 songs in four days and wrapping up with an all-night mixing session left band members worried about how the EP would sound."

"'We kind of grit our teeth and put it out,' said Bell."

"The song 'Bittersweet' is climbing college radio charts. The band will perform some of its new material in a concert tomorrow at Courtyard Night Club at Best Western Inn and Conference Center, Fairview Twp. An opening will be provided by Seventh House of Pittsburgh. Doors open at 8 p.m. Cover charge is $5 For more information, readers may call 774-1100."

"The forthcoming versions of their tunes will undergo more fine-tuning, 'but it will probably be interesting for fans to hear the evolution of the songs,' he said."

"Fuel's mode of travel has also evolved. An upgrade from car to luxury motor home occurred via an advance from Sony. The 1998 air bus is loaded with full kitchen, living room, and lounge. The only snag is the engine."

" 'It's become a new thorn in our side,' said Bell. A successful trip to Canada, where the band opened for Dinosaur Junior, was marred by a breakdown en route to Detroit. Despite the headaches that accompany touring, photo shoots, interviews and recording sessions, the four-some was enjoying the holidays."

"'Every once in a while, you have to step back and say this is about the music and staying true to your vision of what things should be like. It's definately worth it,' said Bell."