Robby Hecht - Not A Number (2024) Hi-Res

While at first listen, the tunes arrive with a subtle & sublime James Taylor-type mainstream folky gentleness the songs also have Kenny Rankin-David Gray touches. Mr. Hecht does project a sincere tonality with his showcase. He doesn’t seem to use his songwriting as entertainment but as a way of collectively inspiring emotions through maturity interlacing each with contemplative textures. The voice has a warmth that goes beyond the Taylor comparisons (“Doses,” “Not a Number”).

Produced by singer-songwriter/guitarist Anthony da Costa Not A Number explores 12 intense subjects. They include divorce, emotional recovery, nostalgia, individual experiences — many obstacles & challenges on life’s path.

Not all will grip equally but it’s obvious Hecht has spent time to sculpt the works. He’s also abandoned the formula for instinct. His light touch stabs tenderly with progressive asides as on “If I Knew You Now,” which has sustenance.

The sprightly “Dead Weight” dazzles with the depth of solid veteran balladeers such as Paul Brady, Darryl Braithwaite & Paul Hyde. Robby’s vocal simmers distinctively & adds a small commercial touch with the repetitive title line. But this is hardly a standard pop CD. The songs are constructed with far more diversity.

Robby doesn’t have the Jim Croce sense of humor but does have shades of Croce’s more serious repertoire (“Lover’s Cross”). There’s lots in each song to set him aside from any comparisons. The songs are more expressive than intense. Each is arranged with mellowness but never lacking melodic drive. They have a savoring quality.