The debut album by Dr. Nyce is a catalog of songs he’s crafted over the past five years. For a full-time musician, working on a project of this magnitude becomes an obsession—one that demands perfection down to every note and detail. The 10-track album was produced by Jason Shaffer at Full Tilt Productions and is all original, except for one song: Van Morrison’s “Tupelo Honey”. Dr. Nyce called on a wealth of local talent to join him on this journey.
The album features drums by Logan Bedard, John Hawk, and Ron Simasek of Badlees fame; bass by Rusty Fohner, Drew Hall, and Jason Shaffer; guitar by Kathy Rimm and Ben Brandt; and saxophone by Jason Mescia from Yam Yam. This collaboration showcases the album’s diversity in both style and flow. From funk to folk, country to gospel, classical to Americana—this album offers something for everyone.
Zach, aka Dr. Nyce, began his musical journey like many musicians—at an early age. His parents were both singers who always encouraged him to be vocal and to use the voice that God gave him, singing at home and in the church choir. The family piano quickly became Zach’s instrument of choice, and by the age of five, he was already taking lessons. He continued studying music and singing through high school, which led to a scholarship in Vocal Performance at Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove. Zach never saw himself as a solo singer and instead chose to focus his energy—and his major—on piano. He later earned his master’s at Bowling Green State University in Ohio and went on to receive his Doctorate of Musical Arts.
While Zach always knew music would be a part of his life, he wasn’t sure that teaching was the right path. After falling in love and marrying his wife Martha, the couple moved back home to Perry County to start a family. Life moved fast. Zach took a construction job to make ends meet but always knew his true love was music.
Fast forward to 2016, and Dr. Nyce joined Katz 22 playing keys. He credits much of his professionalism to his time with Katz 22—all of whom have helped him shape his solo album. You can catch this powerhouse band performing all over the mid-state, where he still plays regularly. The band showcases each member’s strengths as they take turns leading your favorite rock classics. Check out their schedule on page 5.
If you’ve never seen Dr. Nyce live, it’s hard to describe his musical prowess. With a catalog of nearly 100 songs and the ability to take requests and perform them on the spot, he’s a true showman. He also performs with Cagan Goldstein as the 176ers Dueling Pianos—a highly interactive, all-request show where they take turns fielding songs and improvising based on each other’s talents. From engaging the crowd to grabbing a guitar or harmonica, or jumping on key drums, each performance is a wild ride of spontaneous musical magic.
Coming off his recent win for Best Male Vocalist at this year’s CPMAs, Dr. Nyce has evolved from a reserved keyboard player into a full-fledged solo artist. His debut album is just a glimpse of what’s to come.
Track one, ‘Overture,’ is like Pink Floyd meets Jethro Tull—a wild ride that builds from mysterious to monumental. It’ll have you gripping your seat with one hand and cranking the volume with the other. I was genuinely blown away, thinking, “What the hell am I listening to?” I even double-checked I had the right track—it’s that good.
Track two, ‘Spaces,’ slows things down. This deep, introspective song is where the album gets its name, “If Time Is A Thing That Ticks”. It asks questions about life, time, and what it all means. Its catchy chorus and meaningful lyrics will have you singing along—and reflecting on how you spend your time.
Track three, ‘Because I Love You,’ is plain smooth—glassy piano playing layered with Dr. Nyce’s signature vocals, expressing his deep love for being a full-time musician. It’s a lyrical out pouring that reads like a love letter to the life of a working musician. Many may think it’s an easy, carefree road, but this track reminds listeners of the time, sacrifice, and dedication that goes into every song and performance—all done for the audience.
The album’s only cover, ‘Tupelo Honey,’ is a well-executed tribute to Van Morrison. Jason Mescia’s smooth sax lines glide along with Dr. Nyce’s vocals, breathing new life into the classic.
Track five, ‘Intermission,’ is a keys-driven jazz piece—an instrumental gem that offers a preview of what to expect in his future instrumental album.
Next comes ‘High,’ featuring Ben Brandt on guitar. It’s a bluesy number that asks, “Does anyone have a high I can borrow?”—blending strong organ and guitar riffs with storytelling reminiscent of Bob Dylan and a gospel, take-you-to-church Blues Brothers vibe. It’s yet another testament to the album’s stylistic range.
Track seven, ‘I Think I Get It Now,’ tells Dr. Nyce’s personal journey—what it takes to truly understand life and love. It’s a reflective piece that speaks to the growth and sacrifices required in any deep relationship.
‘Reflections’ is an upbeat, funky track that’ll have you grooving. It’s a song about the thoughts that shape your life—another deep and powerful piece pulled straight from Dr. Nyce’s mind.
The album wraps up with ‘Old Dog’ and ‘Lullabye’—two final, well-crafted tracks. ‘Old Boy’ reflects on how quickly the day-to-day grind can age you before you even realize it. ‘Lullabye’ is a soothing, gospel-influenced closer with a steady rhythm to ease your mind and soul.
The entire album is well-produced, with a clean and professional sound. Dr. Nyce’s lyrical abilities, combined with his flawless keyboard work and smooth vocals, make this debut shine. “If Time Is A Thing That Ticks” is now available on all streaming platforms—just search “Dr. Nyce.”
Dr. Nyce would like to thank the CPMAs for supporting local music and giving artists a stage to be seen. He also extends his gratitude to the members of Katz 22, not only for helping with the album but for teaching him what it means to be a professional in the rock and roll world. Thanks to Jason Shaffer at Full Tilt Productions, Fred Pellegrini for mastering help for vinyl, and most importantly, his wife Martha—for her unwavering support, for understanding the labor of love it takes, and for enduring the late nights and long hours that come with the musician’s life.
To keep up with Dr. Nyce, check out the links below—
and go stream, “If Time Is A Thing That Ticks” now.
https://www.facebook.com/drnycepiano
http://www.drnyce.com
https://www.facebook.com/Katz22band
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553562882498
“Thanks so much to the Central
Pennsylvania Music Hall of Fame,
Rachel Rocks, and everyone who
nominated me in multiple categories
this year for the CPMA’s.
I thank Katz 22 for teaching me the
importance of band chemistry and
professionalism. I thank 176ers Dueling Pianos and Cagan Goldstein for teaching me how to fly by the seat of my pants and make a convincing and truly fun
musical experience. Thank you Erica Lyn Everest for your friendship and musical partnership and congrats on your win duuuuuude!!!
Certainly last but certainly not least,
THANK YOU to my partner in life, my
beautiful wife, Marf Nyce. I love you.”
—Zach Nyce
