Camille Schmidt’s debut EP, Good Person, emerges as a profound exploration of personal struggle and self-discovery. Produced by Phil Weinrobe, renowned for his work with Adrianne Lenker and Tomberlin, this six-song collection melds folk-drenched indie pop with a raw, earnest narrative.
The EP is deeply autobiographical, delving into Schmidt's battles with shame and perfectionism. She explains, "This EP is very much about struggle, about process – specifically the process of becoming. And looking back at all the things you’ve been through in your childhood, looking back on the different versions of yourself you’ve been in friendships and relationships, the different fake versions of self you’ve presented to the world (as well as looking directly at the f*cked up things happening in the world) and then sort of asking with a real honest earnest hope, is there something else? And then betting with your life that there is."
In May 2023, Schmidt, Weinrobe, and Schmidt’s band gathered at Sugar Mountain, Weinrobe’s Brooklyn studio. The band, featuring guitarist Sam Talmadge, drummer Pele Greenberg, and bassist Eli Heath, was in for a unique recording experience. Weinrobe’s unconventional approach involved not sharing any of Schmidt's songs with the band beforehand and forgoing a track list for the EP.
As they assembled in the studio, Schmidt would play whatever song felt most resonant that day, drawn from the hundreds she had written over the years. The band would dive into experimentation, and whenever they hit a groove – or what Weinrobe called “the pocket” – he would start recording without allowing any playback. This method ensured the songs retained a raw, authentic feel, capturing the spontaneous synergy of the band playing live together in the studio over just four days.
The resulting EP is an enthralling blend of introspective lyricism and folk-tinged indie pop, each track radiating a sense of immediacy and sincerity. Schmidt’s reflections on her past selves and the masks worn in various relationships resonate deeply, offering listeners a glimpse into her journey of becoming.
Good Person is more than a debut; it's a statement of artistic intent. Schmidt’s regular performances around NYC have honed her sound, and this first official release marks the beginning of what promises to be a compelling musical journey.