REVIEW

Thom makes her mark with 'Flesh and Blood'

By AP's Bianca Roach

[September 25, 2012]  NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Sandi Thom, "Flesh and Blood" (Guardian Angels)

After the success of "Merchants & Thieves" in 2010, Sandi Thom returns with her fourth album "Flesh and Blood"- an album she calls "a coming of age."

Produced by Rich Robinson of The Black Crowes and released on her independent label Guardian Angels Records, Thom proves that she is still relevant and in great vocal shape. From the moment you hit play, the raw soulfulness of Thom's voice on upbeat track "Help Me" makes it obvious it's coming from the heart.

It's not just the voice that tells you this but also the fact that Thom draws from personal experiences to create a record full to the brim with emotion by way of fierce and honest storytelling: "I'm leaving and scales of justice are even I still believe in, you own the air that I breathe in, I cried more you cried less, and I paid my debt in loneliness, so I owe you zero, I owe you zero."

These lyrics accompanied by an acoustic guitar to begin with and later joined by an electric guitar, make "I Owe You Zero" a powerful performance.

Primarily a blues-country record, it's layered with Motown influences as well as rock elements. "Stormy Weather" is all out rock and this mix of genres is definitely a style that suits her.

Those not familiar with Thom's music prior to this will be as delighted as established fans.

CHECK OUT THIS TRACK: "The Big Ones Get Away" featuring Buffy Sainte-Marie -- a superb duel for vocal attention with one of her idols.

[Associated Press; By BIANCA ROACH]

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