Adam Christian Bass’ album Between Worlds is like a box of chocolates. Take a bite from each track and you’ll get a little taste of something sweet for all occasions: love, loss, reflection…and even something to get you on your feet dancing.
You want to party? Try “Lift Off.” It features infectious Latin rhythms that invite you to take a twirl around the dance floor. Intertwined with Spanish lyrics, it’s a song with wide appeal with the potential to cross several genres (and even worldwide markets.)
For a bluesier mood, try “Hurricane.” The driving bass and piano create an atmospheric vibe while Adam’s vocals tell a time-tested tale of love gone wrong.
Things slow down with “Wrinkles of Love,” a deeper track that shows off Bass’ melodic songwriting. The vocals and arrangement have a nostalgic, almost country feel to them.
“Last One” continues in the slower vein, leaning into power ballad territory. It’s a song that would not be out of place in Elton John or Billy Joel’s classic rock repertory.
Despite the introspection, Between Worlds maintains a buoyant feel throughout much of its running time. This is especially true on “Snowman.” Who knew a song about cocaine would be the best one on the album? (Or rather the temptation of coke. There’s no glorification of drugs here.) Adam puts down his funkiest groove here. The lyrics have some catchy hooks built-in too.
Contrast this with “A Father’s Love,” possibly the most personal song on the album. It’s a father love letter to his son sharing the ups, downs, and regrets of a parent.
The upbeat feel returns on “Perfect Ten.” Adam uses a quirky rhythm to extoll the virtues of his dream lady. Each your heart out, Bo Derek.
“Silent Picture” and “Haunted Whisper,” show off Adam’s voice at his best. You could imagine him singing the baritone lead in a stage musical, if not on Broadway itself, at least Off-Broadway. His voice has a rich and confident quality here.
You don’t need to worry about things getting too mellow, though, because Between Worlds ends on an outlaw note with “Magnetic Touch.” Do I detect some funky Southern rock in there? It’s another one that will get you up on the dance floor. Not at the disco, though. More like something you’d hear on the jukebox at your favorite biker bar. The perfect song for last call. Last chance for dancin’ and lovin’.
The musical styles on Between Worlds twist and turn like a mountain road. This can be both exciting and dangerous. There’s something for every mood. But it can also feel as if it’s all over the map at times. Overall, there is much versatility on display here. I suspect many listeners will appreciate this.
Chadwick Easton