Saturday, May 31, 2008

Adam Schmitt - World So Bright - 1991


There's always a buzz surrounding young performers who can do more than just make it through other people's songs. But in the case of World So Bright, any hype about Adam Schmitt being precocious was certainly warranted. Barely out of his twenties, the Illinois singer/songwriter showed astounding command on his major-label debut, playing most of the instruments (with occasional assists from drummer Kenny Aronoff and violinist Lisa Germano, best known for their work with John Cougar Mellencamp), singing most of the harmonies, and including at least half a dozen power pop treasures among the album's 12 cuts. The title track and "Garden of Love" soar with delectable vocal arrangements, while "Dead End," "Can't Get You on My Mind," and "My Killer" have the candy crunch of classic Cheap Trick. Things are less impressive when the amps get cranked too high ("River Black"), but fortunately that's not a frequent mistake, and one that's more than redeemed by songs like the wistful, touching ballad "Elizabeth Einstein." It all seemed to point the way to mainstream success; that it didn't work out that way was one of the most unfortunate musical developments of the '90s, mirroring the career of the similarly brilliant and underexposed Tommy Keene, with whom Schmitt has since worked. -AMG

If you like "World So Bright" get it here!

5 comments:

Dr. David Atahualpa Contreras Cruz said...

Hi
I´m from Mexico and I knew Adam for accident when my dad brought home the cd "world so bright" in a trip to US. I was looking for this music since four years ago and finally i found it, thank you!!

Saludos desde México DF

Mr Lucky Doubles said...

Adam was also a really nice guy. At least he was around Urbana, Illionois 20 years ago. I have no doubt he still is. Thanks for turning folks on to him.

Peter B said...

Anyone know where I can get a copy of Adams song called “Onion Heart”?

Peter B said...
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Peter B said...
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