ERIC HIMAN: All for Show

Eric Himan

All for Show

© 2003 Thumbcrown Records (660662543521)

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""All for Show" is Himan's third release, and it's more of a good thing: more roots-rocking, crowd-pleasing tunes; more soul-exposing honesty in one song than John Mayer accomplishes in an entire CD."- Larry Dean Harris, Frontiers News Mag

notes

Welcome to the third project from out roots rocker, Eric Himan "All for Show" featuring vocals, guitar (acoustic and electric) bass and piano by Eric, drums and percussion by the formally-trained jazz ensemble player, Ms. Nicole Steele, and electric guitar extrodinaire, Steve Bentz. Produced by Eric Himan and engineered by Bill Filer.

One Night Stands opens the "show". A rocker's take on the pressures of love vs. sex, followed by the title track "All for Show". This fast driven flamenco solo piece deals with the emotions that arise from giving yourself up to the world. It's a sure to make you move track!

"My Decision", the first distorted acoustic guitar song by Eric, turns the tables on how rape is perceived in society as a female only occurance.

No Eric Himan album would be complete without a straight up blues song, "Luxury's Definition" centers on the balances between monetary luxury and his personal definition.

The next two tracks, the longing "Outskirts of You" and "Kinda Hard" are honest songs which explore love lost with personal strength gained.

What makes this album different from Eric's previous two is his ability to challenge himself and take risks. The best example "Everytime" is the first piano driven song played by Eric. It tells a manipulative tale of falling in love.

The next song "A Good, Good Cry" is a laid back acoustic band ballad that speaks to comforting another without questioning them.

The last three tracks are acoustic medleys ranging from leaving the past behind "On the Drive", the trials of being left behind "So..." and wagering love in its finale "It's Only Fair".

Eric's Bio:

Where would we be without music? The musical landscape for singer songwriters has become homogenized as every major label looks for the next "big" thing, or to reproduce copy- cat success stories and overnight sensations. What do you do if you are a gifted performer who does not wish to conform to the standards of the industry? If you are Eric Himan, you follow your passion, looking for creative ways to express yourself through sound, and find non- traditional ways to deliver your message to those looking for something real.

Four short years, Eric Himan has begun to build his own reality. Eric Himan (released September 2000) began as an experiment. Eric wanted to provide his coffee shop and other live performance goers something to take with them when the lights went down. This bare, acoustic CD captures Eric's soulful roots. Eric Himan began to get passed around in the Northeast, friends started sharing with other friends, and people began to ask Eric to venture out of State College, PA and come to their towns to perform. It was also during this time that Eric began to play many collegiate events. He managed starting to regionally tour while still a full time student at Penn State University. Thumbcrown Records was born. Thumbcrown derived its name from the crown tattoo displayed on his right thumb. In less than 6 months, Eric sold over 500 copies of Eric Himan after shows and locally in State College. To date, Eric Himan is in its fourth printing and has sold over 2000 copies.

The road continued to call Eric, and he answered the call, playing over 40 colleges and numerous venues up and down the East Coast in 2001. Eric was beginning experience how others were able to find comfort and perspective through his songs. This inspired him to write vigorously and experiment with genres. He was ready to take more time in the studio and record I Go On (released September 2002). He desired to make a CD that reflected more truly his blues, jazz, and even bluegrass influences. His songwriting grew more introspective as he tackled topics such as discovering ones purpose and passion, family acceptance, the death penalty, and the complexity of relationships. Eric continued to tour incessantly and establish himself on the NACA circuit. Instinct Magazine was first to pick up Eric's story nationally and offered him at feature in their May 2003 edition. Fender Guitars also gave a nod to Eric and now lists him as an endorsed artist. Eric appears in the 2004 edition of Fender's Frontline Magazine.

Newly graduated from The Pennsylvania State University, Eric pursued the label and touring with drive. He began playing everywhere he could. In the summer of 2003, Eric played over 15 LGBT Pride events nationwide. Over 60 colleges hosted a performance from Eric, and copies of I Go On sold at a phenomenal rate. AAA radio begun spinning tracks off of I Go On and regional papers all over the country began to pick up Eric's story. With the momentum of coming off a fantastic touring experience, Eric again decided to make the album that was in his heart. Joining with long time friends, Steve Bentz and Nicole Steele, and teaming up again with Bill Filer of Audible Images Studio, they set out to make All For Show.

All For Show was a labor of love for Eric. It captures a time in Eric's life when he was faced with many challenges. This CD is different from his last two in both delivery and content. He took some risks on this CD that he hadn't previously, deciding to be more open and honest about who he is, and what his experiences were. OUT Magazine and Genre picked up the release of All for Show and featured Eric in their December 2003 editions. Additionally, regional papers nationwide also lent Eric coverage with the release of All For Show. Gay.com also featured Eric in a "celebrity qsat" in December 2003. On December 9, 2003 All For Show was released to an eager audience. Selling over 1000 copies in its first four weeks, it seemed that the risks Eric took in recording the CD have paid off. "This CD is different from my others. The more I write, the more I dive into myself and find things that connect me to everyone. To play these songs out now and
have listeners come up to me and tell me how closely related the songs are to their lives, just overwhelms me and makes me want to sing for them!" All For Show was listed as a "Top Sellers Now" on cdbaby.com for four straight weeks.

With national exposure and CD sales exploding, Eric decided to again do what he loves to do and hit the road to support the CD. Eric began his first true national tour stopping at many LGBT Youth Centers across the country, delivering his music, positive message, and dynamic personality to folks who were looking to connect with someone honest and not following any specific mold. Along with the LGBT Centers, Borders Books and Music took and interest in Eric and All For Show and are hosting performances and signings for Eric nationwide. Thumbcrown Records now has a major distributor, TNT Media Group.

To date, Eric looks to have a band join him on the road, and continue to grow as a musician and individual. Thumbcrown Records began for Eric as a way to make his dreams come true. He could not have imagined the impact that simply making music true to himself would have on so many.

reviews

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  • Wonderful doesn't cover it
    author: The Grand Chahee

    Love it, it's great. It's so honest, it's almost raw. It leaves you wanting to listen again and again.

  • So Impressed!!
    author: Rene

    Actually just bought 2 cd's by Eric. Amazing talent, soulful voice. Keep on makin 'em!!

  • Music you will also love.....
    author: Foster

    I love this CD. It is great from beginning to end. There isn't a dull moment. I can listen to it over and over. This is the product of a true artist, and it shows in every song.

  • Are you kidding? If you don't own this album your just lost
    author: Marcie

    Talk about a diamond in the rough, I came across this album because I ran into Eric performing in a club. He is WOW and this album is Double WOW! If this guy isn't on MTV soon I am going down to times square and starting a strike! This music is right to the core and right on time. Don't miss this experience!

  • Well Worth It
    author: Jason

    The music is thoroughly enjoyable. I have had this CD in constant rotation and can't get enough of Eric's songwriting. The production is great and there is something for everyone. Eric is a true storyteller who doesn't just write catchy songs but wraps his listener in substance as well.

  • another incredible CD from a terrific singer
    author: steve clark

    This is one great CD. I can't stop listening. Buy this CD now!

  • Another great album!
    author: William S.

    This album shows an improvement on many fronts, which is a remarkable feat, considering how good his previous one was.

  • This is what it's all about!
    author: Bryan

    I love this cd! I've had it for nearly a week, and I haven't stopped listening to it since I opened it. When I hear the songs on All For Show, it almost feels like Eric is saying the things I've longed to say, but didn't know how. One Night Stands, Everytime, So... these are the songs that it feels like I've lived.

  • author: Mike

    Eric's music is great, he sounds like a cross between Cat Stevens and Dave Matthews, and it's totally refreshing to have an openly gay musician who sings about boys instead of girls! Glad to have found Eric Himan and his music.

  • an artist growing...
    author: James

    this record shows so much promise. i've been listening to it pretty constantly since it showed up in my mailbox last monday. that's a week of 'all for show.' the lyrics and music are awesome if the production sometimes doesn't live up to them, but the voice and the conviction and the sheer talent leave the listener frankly breathless. i'm highly anticipating eric's next record. and i want to check out his earlier records too, just so i can hear the journey from its start and follow it as it travels into the future...

  • this album is amazing- a must have!
    author: travis jennings

    loves it!!!! eric himan's music is wonderful- great sound- and great lyrics... nice to be able to identify with what he is singing about!

  • this album is amazing- a must have!
    author: travis jennings

    loves it!!!! eric himan's music is wondering- great sound-- and great lyrics... nice to be able to identify with what he is singing about!

  • Wonderful
    author: Shannon

    Love his music. Best I have ever heard.

  • Phenomenal!
    author: Laura Howard

    This latest CD of Eric's is truly his best, portraying his wide array of talent. His poetic words can reach anyone's soul. I bought two-one for me and one for my mom! I shipped it to her and she called me last night to tell me how much she loved it!! This CD really does touch any listener.

  • How did he know how I feel??
    author: Brian Schumann

    I met Eric when he played at a unity confrence in N.C. He was such an amazing person to talk to I bought his CD without even hearing him play (didn't hurt that he's hot and all) Turns out He's an amazing singer too!! Got to see him in live a month later, and he's even better than his C.D. In fact I liked him soo much that when I lost his cd by accident (I moved, lots got lost) I used CD baby to purchase it again

  • Man. What an incredible CD.
    author: John Hulsey

    Heard "Kinda Hard" on PlanetOut music, and decided to pick up this CD. This guy is incredible, and this CD allows him to stretch a bit. It's upbeat enough for a road trip, but meaningful enough for a rainy afternoon. And "Everytime" might as well have been written for a Marine buddy of mine. Any CD that makes me move with one track and cry with another is a fortunate find. All for show, indeed.

  • This is a GREAT cd, would recommend to others.
    author: Amy Martin

    All For Show is an awsome cd, and I enjoy listening it all the time. I will recommend this cd to all who would like to listen to it.

  • Incredible song writer, poetic
    author: Dez Everson

    Eric tells the stories of life on this CD, like only he could. The listener can really relate to every song. He has a poetic pen like no other. His voice cuts through your soul on every song, and leaves you wanting more. 5 Big, Big stars!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Eric has made a quality CD which will be a long time classic!
    author: Robert Blatchford

    From the first time I heard 'Kinda Hard', I knew this CD was going to be great! From 'A Good Good Cry' to "My Decision'....this CD contains the full spectrum of human emotion with Eric's voice and guitar as the orchestra!! 'All for Show' keeps you riveted to your seat waiting to hear what is going to happen next, and delivers with quality music, and outspoken lyrics. I was very impressed by the song "My Decision' about male on male rape, a topic needing to be talked about openingly. The only regret is having not bought it sooner. Great Job, Eric!

  • I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!
    author: Eric Neville

    I just saw Eric at Indiana University. He was amazing. I love him and his music. Thank you Eric for coming to IU. It was a pleasure. If you don't have this CD yet, GET IT NOW!!!!

  • Amazing cd and a must have for any acoustic fan!
    author: Rick

    As an acoustic gay artist myself this cd has given me much inpiration and has rejuvenated my desire in singing and song writing. Glad to finally find someone I can identify with in the gay community. Thank You Eric Himan, Rick

  • Amazing cd and a must have for any acoustic fan!
    author: Rick

    As an acoustic gay artist myself this cd has given me much inpiration and has rejuvenated my desire in singing and song writing. Glad to finally find someone I can identify with in the gay community. Thank You Eric Himan, Rick

  • An excellent emotionally charged and pure sounding journey
    author: Eric Aoki

    Hi Eric, I was seeking something more raw and honest, emotionally charged, this summer to listen to as I traveled the globe and connected with family and friends. I found this need through your album. I'm a university professor in Cultural Studies and Communication at Colorado State, and I spend a lot of time listening to college students going through life's growth and challenges. This summer, I needed something for myself, so that I could work on a few moments of healing for my own life. Mostly, I appreciate feeling humbled by people and their experiences, so thanks for some good words and music. I'll likely use a song or two as I talk about life issues and gay issues in my university classroom. I'm an out professor on campus, so art/work like yours helps feed curriculum for life learning in the classroom. I'm sure we'll have some interesting conversations about issues and experiences you share. Thanks for a great album and for sharing your life and passion, Eric Aoki

  • Awesome Artist! Can't wait for more.
    author: Lloyd G

    I hadn't heard of Eric, until I read about him on PlanetOut's Buzzworthy section, listing up and coming music talent. I listened to the sound clips and decided to buy his latest album. Eric has such an honesty about his music. His words ring true and you just know he's singing from his heart. While this album may be titled, "All For Show", Eric shows that he's all about talent, and I, for one, am happy that he's sharing it with the rest of us. I'm definitely going to buy his previous albums, and will anticipate his next. Also hope to catch him live as he tours around the east coast.

  • it's great--i'll buy more
    author: insocal
  • THIS IS MY LIFE
    author: JOSHUA MILO

    THIS CD IS AMAZING! I RELATE TO ERIC ON SO MANY LEVELS. EVERY YOUNG GAY KID SHOULD OWN THIS ALBUM. TURLY INSPIRATIONAL.

  • Excellent CD!!
    author: Michael

    I have only been an Eric fan for about 10 months since I first discovered his website. I believe this CD to be his best to date. "Kinda Hard" and "Everytime" are two of my favorite songs on this album and I can't say enough about it. It is just so great to see a gay artist making great music. Even my straight friends are liking him when I share his music with them.

  • 'All For Show' is simply a great album!!!
    author: Bill Rudd

    Eric Himan's 'All For Show' is an album full of the emotions and feeling you rarely get nowadays. If you like Paddy Casey or Mark Eitzel then you must get this CD!

  • Greatest CD
    author: nick bell

    bought erics cd a while ago and havent stopped listening to it since. Its such a great cd from song number 1 until the end. Great Job!

  • Buy This CD!
    author: Paul Ter Beek II

    I am writing this after listening 4 times in a row when I should be working!! Opened my housemates mail this am and saw the cd. Took it to work and haven't stopped listening yet. Never heard of Eric Himan until now. My ears are grateful for opening the mail. In a world of over done music it is refresing to hear something so straight forward!

  • He runs the emotional gambit
    author: Christopher

    All for Show is a CD that has been one of the top 3 in my CD player since I received it. Eric Himan has done a phenominal job of capturing heartfelt truth in this collection songs that range from love to recovery. I can't recommend this CD enough!

  • Captivating
    author: Dustin

    Eric's music is completely captivating. His down to earth lyrics and his unique and attrative voice make me play the CD over and over. I will definitely recommend people buy Eric's CD's!

  • Captivating
    author: Dustin

    Eric's music is completely captivating. His down to earth lyrics and his unique and attrative voice make me play the CD over and over. I will definitely recommend people buy Eric's CD's!

  • Amazing guitarist with lots of soul
    author: Seth

    Had a chance to hear him perform material from this CD live last year, simply amazing to experience. All For Show has some really powerful moments, particularly Outskirts of You. Great CD!

  • Songs with heart ...
    author: Enzo

    I have listened to this CD about 50 times and I have only had it for about a month! Each song is so personal and relatable. I definitely recommend purchasing this CD. You will not regret it!

  • I Really enjoyed this music. I can listen to it all the time.
    author: Ray Fox

    It was the type of music I enjoy. It will be listened to a lot.

  • Excellent
    author: Matthew Fisher

    This is Eric's most complete album to date. From beginning to end I can't stop listening to it. I hope that more people get a chance to hear his work; it truly is amazing.

  • Absolutely amazing and inspirational!!
    author: Ryan Drushel

    Just saw him live at a playing, and bought the new cd. The other two are great, but this one is by far the best yet. Keep writing such powerful and meaningful lyrics Eric, you're truely an inspiration to follow one's dreams, regardless of what others think.

  • Love this guy...great voice, great words, great music!!
    author: Damian

    I had only read article about this artist so I decided to buy his latest CD. And wow, such a great album. THe lyrics hit home to me and the guitar work reminds me of Ani DiFranco. His voice is amazing and this CD is great to take with you on road trips. I loves it so much i bought his previous albums. LOVE IT!!

  • I love this discovery!
    author: Jeff

    Love Eric's sound -- and his voice -- and his lyrics! I've listened to nothing else since I got the CD two weeks ago! And the fact that he's an openly gay man is just gravy!

  • Wow, you have to hear it...trust me!
    author: Michael

    Saw the review in the Advocate. Got it to mend my heart, but it did much more! Eric's lyrics are so real and true it's like talkin' to a good friend. His voice is very soothing but he can use it powerfully when he needs to! I've never really heard an album quite like this one and I've been out for 25 years! Keep makin' muic Baby!

  • Wow!!
    author: David

    "All for Show" is spectacular! Eric's vocal ability and sound is so unique and such a pleasant change from so much of the generic crap on the radio. Yes, there are moments where you see influences of other singers, but that is to be expected. Most amazing is Eric's ability to completely rock out and not lose sight of the quality of the music. At the same time, again he places so much emotion in the music and words that you can't help but be moved, like in "A Good, Good Cry."

  • This Album is the real deal!
    author: The Madd Reviewer

    This CD is amazing. Heartfelt in a way that NO artist has come close to doing right in YEARS. I once read that Erics songs contain more emotion in one song than John Mayer does in a whole album. Thats certianlly the case with ALL FOR SHOW. ***** A

  • I really can't say enough good things about this album!
    author: Bruce Lomet (CHINASKI)

    I really can't say enough good things about this album. "All for Show" is nothing less than amazing. Eric Himan delivers a non stop performance of heart-felt emotion that will reach every single listener in some way or another. His lyrics are poetry at its finest and can be applied to nearly every situation that life has to offer. Eric's vocal tone and guitar skills are incredible and not easily forgotten.

  • Can't stop listening to it!!!!!
    author: Clayton

    I will keep it short and sweet. I am an avid listener to all genres of music and this is by far the BEST CD of the entire year. An absolute must!!!!!!!

  • Stunning from start to finish!
    author: Gina

    If you haven't had the pleasure of listening to an Eric Himan cd then this is the one to start with. It showcases everything that is so wonderful and unique about his music: beautiful singing, heartful lyrics, wonderful guitar playing and melodies that won't leave your brain no matter how much you try to get them out! Each time I listen to "All for Show" I get hooked on another song. Songs like the brutally honest "My Decision" or the quiet beauty of "Outskirts of You" and "Everytime" will move you immediately. Run, don't walk to get this cd!! It's definitely a must-have from such a talented new artist. So good!!

  • Simply amazing !
    author: Patrick Blanchard

    I wish I had ordered more than one, because I am afraid I will wear mine out, I listen to it night and day. Do yourself a favor and get All for show, it will be the best gift you can give yourself. Thanks Eric for another amazing and heartfelt c.d. I love this music!!!!!!!!

  • author: Frontiers News Magazine

    "All for Show" is Himan's third release, and it's more of a good thing: more roots-rocking, crowd-pleasing tunes; more soul-exposing honesty in one song than John Mayer accomplishes in an entire CD; and more matter-of-fact queer content that--even if he didn't have the full-sleeve tattoos--says, "I'm no sissy boy." If Rufus Wainwright is the Billy Joel for the new gay generation, then Himan could very well be our Bruce Springsteen. On the first track, he puts his sexual politics out front: "Well I've never given one-night stands a good start/I don't go nowhere I can't take my heart/And I know that makes me some kind of prude, but I don't start things I can't see my way through." Himan may look like the Silverlake type, but his values are refreshingly South Carolina, where he was born. As a songwriter, he's already a master at mixing musical styles--from driving rock to blues to upbeat, acoustic pop. Throughout the album, Himan tempers his hard-rock angst about topics like date rape ("My Decision") and getting dumped ("So") with a tender ballad like "Everytime," in which he helplessly watches a friend repeat the same mistakes with a girl he loves: "Everytime you land on your feet ... she turns your victory into defeat." But don't let the title of his CD mislead you. Himan acknowledges his smile is "all for show," but he's perfectly willing to share the hurt he feels inside.

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