Stephen DiJoseph

"Hypnotized" is more than a busman's holiday for DiJoseph, best known for his spirit seeking piano work with its idiosyncratic approach to rhythm and inventive tunefulness. Here he surprises, singing a set of pop tunes on the guitar. However, while staying well within the genre, DiJoseph still puts his distinctive stamp on every song, starting with tuning his guitar in uncoventional ways. Then he puts a strong groove consciousness to work. Check out the only cover, "Nights in White Satin," which DiJoseph remakes while traveling all over the fretboard. How many pop tunes that work begin with anything like "You pushed me down an elevator shaft" ("Flyin'")? Even when DiJoseph delivers the vocals smooth and sweet ("Walk in Your Shoes") there's an edge to the performance, vulnerable with a hint of vengeance. With a little electric manipulation, he can sound downright dangerous ("No Chance"). At its best, "Hypnotized" can mesmerize. ©

David Kleiner for www.minor7th.com