This is a deceptive album in which the mellow, understated tone belies a deeper emotional content.
Hecht's carefully crafted songs draw from themes of inconsistency and commitment that relate closely to the fact that he was belatedly diagnosed as suffering from bipolar disorder. Feeling It Now seeks to capture what that condition feels like from the inside looking out, coping with everyday situations most of us take for granted.
This is his third album but the fact that it is self titled signifies his desire to make a fresh start. He is based in Nashville but only Soon I Was Sleeping has an overtly music city vibe. With vocals shared with Rose Cousins, this song describes a relationship ruined by alcoholism and some great lines like "You call me up tipsy, saying girl don't you miss me".
The singer's poetic aspirations are most evident on The Sea And The Shore, co-written with Amy Speace. Sophisticated oceanic metaphors of "savage white caps" and "salty trails" are clever but it is the straightforward line "I have longed for you for so long" that really tugs on the heart strings.
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This kind of directness also pays dividends on Cars And Bars, about brief encounter that promised much but ended as just a bittersweet memory.
New York City is an affectionate ode to a city that stirs love-hate feelings; a place to fall in love with but one which also has a harsh side and aspects that "got me scared as shit"
Other highlights include the shuffling rhythms of Papa's Down The Road Dead and a cover of Gillian Welch's Hard Times.
It takes a few listens to appreciate but once you get on this album's wavelength, there is great beauty and honesty that rewards close attention.
Robby Hecht's website
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