Carlotta Schmidt Releases Sophomore Album ‘Overthinker’

Danielle Holian
2 days ago
4 min read

A Bold, Personal, and Meticulously Crafted Journey Through Thought, Change, and Introspection

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For more than a decade, New Jersey-based singer/songwriter, guitarist, and producer Carlotta Schmidt (she/they) has been captivating audiences with soaring vocals, heartfelt lyricism, and vibrant acoustic guitar work. Now, with the release of her sophomore album Overthinker, Schmidt delivers their most intimate and ambitious work to date; an entirely self-written and self-produced 10-track record that reflects a life in transition, reflection, and emotional intensity.

Released in 2025, Overthinker showcases Carlotta Schmidt’s full creative control and artistic vision. The album features her band, The Bold, alongside acclaimed guest musicians cellist Dave Eggar (Coldplay, Lady Gaga, Norah Jones) and violinist Lyris Hung (Beyoncé, Quincy Jones, Indigo Girls). Together, they help shape a richly layered sonic landscape that blends jazz-inspired acoustic rock with emotionally charged storytelling.

Schmidt’s first self-titled album introduced audiences to their signature blend of original compositions and reimagined classics, earning praise for its inventive acoustic jazz-rock approach. With Overthinker, critics and fans alike have continued to celebrate Schmidt’s evolving artistry and emotional depth.

Over the years, Carlotta Schmidt has performed at iconic venues including New York City’s legendary The Bitter End, and New Jersey landmarks such as The Stone Pony, Asbury Lanes, House of Independents, and The Wonder Bar. She has shared stages with a wide range of artists, including 11-time Grammy Award winner Brandi Carlile and Grammy-nominated jazz trumpeter Jon Faddis.

In 2024, Schmidt created and produced the women-led, Lilith Fair-inspired festival Fourth Wave Fest, raising thousands of dollars for a New Jersey nonprofit supporting survivors of domestic violence. In 2025, they received the Emerging Artist Grant from the Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Foundation, followed by a 2026 nomination for Asbury Park Music Awards’ Emerging Artist of the Year (Individual).

At its core, Overthinker is an album about thought itself; its weight, its chaos, and its meaning. “This is an album about thinking. Lots of thinking. Perhaps over-thinking,” Schmidt explains. “My life changed so much between my first and second albums. I came out, I experienced devastating loss, I worked with heroes… everything that was happening was constantly swirling around my head.”

The album spans themes of love, grief, anxiety, longing, identity, and transformation. Written over approximately four months, each song was created by Schmidt alone, composed on a 1979 Guild D55 acoustic guitar, frequently in quiet solitude on her bedroom floor.

Schmidt self-produced Overthinker, choosing to maintain full creative control. “I had a very clear vision in my head for every aspect of the album. I spent hours reworking mixes, arrangements, and every small detail,” they said. “I loved the independence of being my own producer. I found it to be a very empowering and rewarding experience.” The Bold features guitarist Mike Flynn, bassist Paul Avrutin, and drummer Lee Finkelstein (of the original Blues Brothers Band). Each brought distinct musical experience and personality into the recording process, helping shape the album’s dynamic foundation.

The record also includes standout contributions from Dave Eggar, whose free-form cello arrangements added unexpected depth, and Lyris Hung, whose violin work brought emotional texture. Hung’s involvement was especially meaningful for Schmidt, who has long admired her work with the Indigo Girls. “I didn’t think she would say yes,” Schmidt shares. “But she did. And working with her was unforgettable.”

“Let Me Be Me” is an anthem of identity and self-acceptance. The track quickly became a personal favorite for Schmidt and a fan highlight. Its music video features 67 participants from around the world holding lyric cards, amplifying its message of unity and queer visibility. “Oyster and Pearl” features both lap steel and violin; this track blends emotional contrast and sonic experimentation. “Woman Crush Wednesday” is a playful, high-energy track that showcases Schmidt’s expanded vocal and guitar range. “I Just Want To Talk To You” is a deeply personal tribute to Schmidt’s late mentor of ten years, and the only track featuring the full ensemble of The Bold, Dave Eggar, and Lyris Hung. “Rosalie” is the first collaboration with Lyris Hung, notable for its layered string arrangements and evolving studio experimentation.

TRACKLIST

Since You Never Asked

Woman Crush Wednesday

I Just Want To Talk To You

Let Me Be Me

Oyster and Pearl

Brother

Dream of You

Rosalie

Now I Don’t Miss You Anymore

Two Steps Forward, Twenty Back

About Carlotta Schmidt:

Carlotta Schmidt is a New Jersey-based singer/songwriter, guitarist, and producer known for their emotionally driven songwriting, dynamic live performances, and genre-blending acoustic rock style. As the leader of Carlotta Schmidt and The Bold, they continue to develop a growing body of work rooted in authenticity, experimentation, and storytelling. Whether performing solo or with their band, Schmidt remains focused on evolving their craft and connecting deeply with audiences through music.

Connect with Carlotta Schmidt: Instagram, Spotify, YouTube, Website