Enduring Adams Is Fully Charged on ‘Unplugged’

*** BRYAN ADAMS “Unplugged” A&M;

Adams’ biggest hits in the ‘90s have been the sort of sweeping, romantic ballads that are staples of adult-contemporary radio. But with this live album, he reinforces his cachet as an earnest but gritty roots-rocker. Working with a small orchestra and Irish piper Davy Spillane, Adams delivers taut, folksy renditions of old singles such as “Cuts Like a Knife” and “Summer of ‘69,” and infuses more recent songs, including “Let’s Make a Night to Remember” and “The Only Thing That Looks Good on Me Is You” with bluesy punch.

The singer also introduces three new tunes, among them the rousing, anthemic “A Little Love” and “When You Love Someone,” a tender ballad that proves he hasn’t lost touch with his sentimental side. Adams may not be the most inventive songwriter around, but his enduring knack for catchy hooks and his rugged chops as a concert performer make this collection a modest charmer.

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