Review: The Day After Yesterday: A Sure Hit for Today

Have you ever wondered what songs are at the top of your favorite artist’s top ten lists?

In The Day After Yesterday, released July 12, Rick Springfield answers this question by recording thirteen songs “he wishes he had written.” Also included is “Cry,” a song he penned at the same time these songs hit the air-waves.

Released on Gomer Records, Springfield’s own label, the collection of mostly ballads from the seventies and eighties showcases his ability to breathe new life into a standard and render a new interpretation while staying true to the memory and composer’s version.

The first single, “Broken Wings,” is a duet with Richard Page who wrote the hit song for Mr. Mister. Springfield lends a mature raspy voice that gives the song a longing undertone. The addition of Page adds to the reminiscence, and the song maintains it integrity.

“Baker Street” is a personal favorite with the jazz influenced saxophone. It is another example of Springfield finding the perfect blend of nostalgia while leaving his unique prints on the song. A second nod to jazz is the track “Blue Rose” originally performed by Lizz Wright. The keyboards on this track are simply beautiful.

The Beatles song, “For No one,” is covered as well as the John Lennon classic, “Imagine.” While it may seem like a bold move to try and re-do a song so burned in everyone’s mind, he pulls it off and closes the record with the message that is once again relevant to the times.

Dynamically different then his last release, Shock/Denial/Anger/Acceptance, Rick Springfield shows exactly what the range of his talent is. With the well remembered hits, some obscure songs and the original ballad, The Day After Yesterday is a collection I will enjoy today as well as tomorrow.