Amelia White was born in Virginia, served her musical apprenticeship in Boston and is now a resident of Nashville. This is her fifth album and her standing within the Nashville community can be measured by the impressive list of musicians she has been able to call upon.
These include John Hiatt's favourite guitarist Doug Lancio, who also plays mandolin and, on guitars and harmonica, there's John Jackson (JJ) who played in Bob Dylan's band from 1991-1997 and with Shelby Lynn for 12 years.
JJ has also played briefly with Lucinda Williams, an artist Amelia has obvious similarities with without ever being as sassy or streetwise.
Her sound is more folk-rock than rootsy Americana and the influence of British pop is shown by her choice of producer, Band Of Joy's drummer Marco Giovino, and the one cover track - a mellow version of Bryan Ferry's More Than This. All other songs written or co-written by her.
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Mercy features a duet with Jim Croce's son A.J. Croce. The sleeve note for this track reminds us that "the world is a rough arena for the tender hearted".
The songs are all very affirmative even when the subject is a failed relationship or death. The title track was written for late mentor,and close friend, Duane Jarvis while Sidewalks was written while visiting a dying family member.
The mood is easy-going and founded by a strong faith that the beautiful and wild sides of life join together in harmony.
It doesn't break any new ground but it would be a pleasant album for chilling on the back porch to.
Amelia White's Website
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