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Written by Dave Richards (Dr. Rock),  Reprinted from the Erie Times News, January 1995

"This is an impressive disc ......."

That Same Thing

Hyman, an all-around musical talent, steps out of the sideman role and displays his own personality and style on That Same Thing. Expertly produced by Keith Veshecco and recorded at TRS and Glass Onion, it showcases an accomplished singer/songwriter.

That Same Thing is a polished, immaculate disc, chockfull of tuneful, melodic, full-bodied songs with a burnished feel. The clean playing and perfect guitar tone make this a rich listening experience, but so do all the little touches - the subtle flute and saxophone work by Dogs-mate Kevin McCleary, the understated cello and light percussion, and ripples of piano in the title cut and "Can't Get Back." Lots goes on in these songs, but they never feel cluttered.

Hymans strengths leap out in "She's Not There", the kickoff track, which effortlessly blends three distinct parts into one song. He's a good arranger, a composer who can write actual bridges - the hardest part for most songwriters. But it's the rushing, breakneck chorus that ultimately makes "She's Not There" stick. This song belongs on the radio, somewhere.

"She's Not There" and a few other tracks have a dark, vaguely R.E.M. - ish guitar sound, which the Doc likes. "Ordinary Man" has a chugging-easy flowing folk flavor which sounds better every time the Doc hears it. Equally satisfying (and complex) is "Miles Away," in which a great Beatlesque guitar intro gives way to a bouncy, playful beat. Any song that can conjure up images of both Feelies and Beatles, without sounding the least bit forced, is A-OK with the Doc.

"Cara's Song" is a delicate, unbelievably pretty lullaby which showcases Hyman's pleasing vocals.

Hyman's songs are so sturdy and fully developed they remind the Doc of artists like Jules Shear and Chris Stam. At this point, he's a stronger musician than lyric writer. The going gets a bit wordy at times, and the Doc would prefer a stronger point of view. But Hyman avoids sap and greeting card verse, which is a big plus. This is an impressive disc.

Dr. Rock's rating:  & 1/2 out of four

Written Dave Richards (Dr. Rock), reprinted from the Erie Times News, April 1997

"This one rocks! ........."

Dive

"Dive" may shock those familar with Hyman's first CD, "That Same Thing." That one thrived on pretty melodies and mellow tunes. This one rocks. It's bolder and more powerful, mostly brash rock and roll played with lots of authority and confidence.

The punchy, nicely arranged title cut has a rousing, shout-along chorus, stinging licks, and dynamic approach that fairly screams "hit." It's the kind of song you might have found on a John Mellencamp album at the peak of his commercial powers.

"All The Way Down" - currently playing on Rocket 101 - is equally strong, a big rock/funk number with a chunky guitar riff you can't get out of your head (a riff that's remarkably Dogs' like). And the hyped-up adrenalized "Another Night" motors like a New York cabbie. It rocks with a desperate air.

The Doc also likes "Love Brings You Back," which cuts a feel-good groove and easygoing strut, not unlike early Steely Dan. The organ work only adds to the song's warmth. And "Fly" is an intriguing experiment that works. A Beatlesque opening gives way to a light rap-funk before the song explodes full flower with a soaring chorus. It's one of the more ambitious songs here, along with the spare, soul-baring, piano-driven "Black Horizon," which reminds the Doc of Elton John a la "Blue Moves" period.

"Dive" also features the country-inflected, Dylanesque pop song, "Don't Ask" and "Isolation," a brooding power ballad.

"Dive" takes you through some emotional turmoil. But it's noteworthy what starts out with "Dive" (as in downward) ends with "Fly" (as in up, up, up). In some ways, it's a disc about sticking with your dreams, following your ambition, despite the pitfalls that knock you for a loop along the way ("Isolation," "Black Horizon"). It's a journey worth taking.

Dr. Rocks rating: out of four.

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