Tami Neilson's last two records, Dynamite and Don't Be Afraid, have largely reflected a soul-infused country sound. In Sassafrass the soul aspect is much more to the fore, and it works a treat.
The songs that Neilson brought to the table for this album are simply sensational.
In A Woman's Pain she channels Bobbie Gentry and the sultry Manitoba Sunrise at Motel 6 was written on the day that Glen Campbell died. And for Good Man, the lights are turned way down and Neilson's delivery is the very essence of the soulful sound that she was looking for. Its easy to think of soul greats such as Ray Charles on these originals.
The album title says it all - Sassafrass is slang for a sassy person who isn't afraid to speak their mind.
- Tony Nielsen
