“Her voice is blessed with a natural warmth that flits between tender softness and soaring intensity, while her acoustic guitar work anchors each song with organic emotion…Songs like "Let Me Be Me" and "Dream of [You]" show Schmidt’s knack for marrying lyrical honesty with melodic sensitivity.”
“...Overthinker never shies away from vulnerability, yet it consistently finds beauty within uncertainty. It is an accomplished sophomore release that demonstrates Carlotta Schmidt’s growing confidence as both a songwriter and producer, offering a thoughtful, richly crafted work that rewards attentive listening and lingers long after its final notes fade.”
“The record draws serious firepower around [Schmidt’s] vision…It’s a richly layered set that rewards close listening.”
“At its best, “Let Me Be Me” functions as both personal testimony and public invitation. It is a reminder that protest songs need not shout to be powerful. Through thoughtful songwriting, heartfelt performances, and an ambitious visual concept executed with remarkable warmth, Carlotta Schmidt has crafted a work that resonates well beyond its autobiographical origins. In an era hungry for authenticity, this is a song that earns its emotional weight.”
“...Carlotta Schmidt has crafted a song that speaks to the present moment while carrying the timeless appeal of a well-told story.”
“Overall, Carlotta Schmidt has made an album that feels both honest and emotional from the start. Taking vulnerability, finding strength within”
“You go Carlotta!”
"Carlotta Schmidt’s self-titled debut album has a simple yet venust jazz rock sound that foregrounds her expansive voice...I predict that this album will be Carlotta’s curtain raiser."
“...ask anyone in Long Branch who has seen her take the stage, and they’ll tell you there’s nothing surprising about Schmidt getting her flowers.”
"An artist has been making waves in the vast realm of New Jersey independent music with her unique blend of jazz-inspired acoustic rock. Her name is Carlotta Schmidt, and she’s more than just a singer, songwriter, and guitar player – she’s a musical force to be reckoned with."
“This is a group of songs that address the human condition with great songwriting and singing, coupled with terrific melodies played by outstanding musicians. Quite an accomplishment for an 18-year-old!”
“...[Jon Faddis] and Carlotta had a long, one on one conversation about, among other things, music and vocalists Carlotta should study. When Mr. Faddis included “Aretha” on the list, Carlotta said, “I sing Chain of Fools out all the time” and proceeded to sing it for Mr. Faddis. He said that Carlotta was giving him goosebumps!”
“The result [of the Let Me Be Me music video] is a moving celebration of individuality and shared humanity, reinforcing the song's message that everyone deserves the freedom to be themselves.”
“Carlotta Schmidt's initiative underscores the power of music in fostering community, amplifying female voices, and supporting vital social causes. With Fourth Wave Fest, she not only orchestrates a day of entertainment but also orchestrates positive change, one note at a time.”
“Turn up the volume on Long Branch-born singer/songwriter Carlotta Schmidt”
“Singer and musician Carlotta Schmidt organized this year's Fourth Wave Fest to aid victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault. Not bad for a seventeen-year-old!”
“An interview with Stu Coogan”
“An interview with Carlotta and NJ singer, Gab Cinque, discussing Carlotta's festival, Fourth Wave Fest”
“A conversation with Carlotta from July 14, 2023, originally broadcast live on 90.5 Brookdale public radio.”
“In reference to a performance by Carlotta Schmidt and the Bold at a fundraiser for the Center of Asbury Park: The music was provided by Carlotta Schmidt and the Bold, a band led by 17-year-old Carlotta At least half a dozen friends came up to me to exclaim how much they loved this band. Carlotta and gang set the tone for the party and absolutely packed the dancefloor, something not often seen at fundraisers.”
“A group of us attended [Fourth Wave Fest, 2024] and were very impressed, and knowing Carlotta, not surprised that it was a well run, successful event.”
“The Al Green classic “Love and Happiness” is given the full sonic treatment with stunning results. Carlotta’s solo is a product of her dedication to the craft, and for me the musical highlight of the disc.”
“In reference to Carlotta's performance for the Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues' Foundation's, Reckless Steamy Nights: "What a great night of music from someone who has her whole life in front of her. She certainly made those of us who have supported her very proud on this night."”