Adam Green's 2005 solo album Gemstones, a sort of musical reply to Bright Lights, Big City, is firmly rooted in the Big Apple, its rockabilly rhythms rattle with the L-Train, its melodies hit like a fresh cross street gust, but whether you’ve visited New York or not its brisk, affecting songs will resonate with anyone who knows what it is like to be alone amongst the crowd.
Driven by Green’s beguiling baritone, from the album’s spinning, Wurlitzer-driven opener and title track Gemstones, via the chiming organs and voodoo maraca of Over The Sunrise, the irresistible rock’n’roll bop of Emily and the bittersweet lament of Losing On A Tuesday, the record is as affecting as it is surreal. Fantastical imagery and linguistic twists that evoke an Escher-meets-Sesame Street version of city life, but beneath Green’s visions, guided by his playful melodies, is a warm beating heart of genuinely moving emotions.
Now, as Gemstones marks its 20th anniversary with a new vinyl release, it is time for all of us to step back and truly appreciate this musical diamond.
Released: December 2025
Cat: RTRAD194LPX
Label: Rough Trade Records
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Tracklist
1. Gemstones
2. Down on the Street
3. He's the Brat
4. Over the Sunrise
5. Crackhouse Blues
6. Before My Bedtime
7. Carolina
8. Emily
9. Who's Your Boyfriend
10. Country Road
11. Choke on a Cock
12. Bible Club
13. Chubby Princess
14. Losing on a Tuesday
15. Teddy Boys