WAYNE SMART – Just Another Stranger [Japan Edition +1] *HQ*

As requested, here’s “Just Another Stranger“, the album released by Canadian WAYNE SMART in the second half of the Nineties, in its Japanese edition including a bonus track. While appeared in 1997, “Just Another Stranger” songwriting, arrangements and production is pure 1987: yes, that polished North American AOR / Melodic Rock sound we all love.
WAYNE SMART owns a smooth vocal register, and co-wrote most the songs with producer & keyboardist Richard Buck, a bunch of upbeat vivid melodic rockers mixed with midtempo AOR gems. Think a mix of Stan Bush, Brian McDonald, Michael Morales, etc.

Now let’s read what our friend Troy (R.I.P.) think about the album:
Cannuck of Native origin (his ancestors were Huron Indians) Wayne Smart learned to play bass and guitar from the age of 12 and started his first band at 16. After finishing college he toured North America as a lead singer with several bands, he teamed up with record producer Richard Buck, a frequent visitor at his concerts, with whom he co-wrote this 1996 debut album.

Within the context of the melodic rock / AOR genre “Just Another Stranger” is a solid effort, serving up a number of songs that are perfect fodder for FM rock stations. This gifted artist from Ottawa knows how to deliver.
I have no complaints whatsoever about the way he and his company of guest musicians perform on this album. Vocals, harmonies, guitars, keyboards and rhythm section are all up to scratch and well-balanced.
Those who would find a ballpark comparison helpful may think of melodic rockers like Michael Morales, Kane Roberts and Michael Sweet, or a latter-day Stan Meissner. This particular stranger needs not take a backseat to any of these fellow artists.

The album kicks off with its title track, one of the best songs on offer. Some other outstanding cuts include the exciting “Fighting for a miracle” (terrific guitar theme), “No more time for dreaming” and “Tonight” (both featuring a splendid keyboard intro) as well as the dramatic “Father forgive me” and the balladesque “In your eyes”.
“Don’t call me a sinner” is represented in an acoustic and a non-acoustic version, one of which I could have done without, since there is hardly any difference between the two.

Wayne Smart’s music – at least on “Just another stranger” – is not the kind that should be over-analyzed. He is by no means a novelty act, nor are his lyrics of the reflective and intellectually challenging variety. This is just lightweight heavy rock, stripped of any and all pretensions. Sit back and enjoy, preferably while driving a sportscar with the top down, doing 55 mph… within city limits.

A wonderful piece of classic AOR/Melodic rock, timeless stuff as despite release 1997 it sounds 1987. Well worth this Japanese release as the bonus track is highly enjoyable & collectible.
HIGHLY Recommended

Victor Entertainment Inc. Japan (VICP ～60067)

01 – Just Another Stranger
02 – No More Time For Dreaming
03 – Wake Me Up
04 – I Ride The Wind
05 – Fighting For A Miracle
06 – Don’t Call Me A Sinner
07 – Hot Nights In The City
08 – Father Forgive Me
09 – Tonight
10 – In Your Eyes
11 – Don’t Call Me A Sinner (Acoustic Version)
－Ｂｏｎｕｓ　Ｔｒａｃｋ　ｆｏｒ　Ｊａｐａｎｅｓｅ　ｆａｎｓ－
12 – Are You Ready

Wayne Smart – lead & backing vocals
musicians:
Richard Buck
Robert Stefan
Alain Bertrand
Martin Eon
Steve Taillon
Dave Taillon

out of print