Sandy Carroll - Just As I Am (2011)

Tracklist

01. Blessed Be
02. Help Mother Nature
03. Heartfixin'Man
04. Waiting for the Storm
05. Romeo and Juliet
06. Runnin' Out of Grace
07. Slow Kisses
08. Messin' With Me
09. Baby Comin' Home
10. Just As I Am



All the songs are written or co-written by Carroll. Powerful and compelling songs they are, too. She has written songs for some of the best in the business. No doubt the production by Grammy-winning husband Jim Gaines is a big factor in the appeal of the album. Other would-be producers should take note. This CD is a classic example of how less is more. But the strength of the CD is the songwriting and vocal talent of Sandy Carroll herself.

Memphis singer-songwriter Sandy Carroll's new album is her first in several years. She was one of the Beale Street originals when it opened back up in the 80s and was honored with her note on the famous street in 2011. Produced by the legendary Jim Gaines who is Sandy's husband. Just As I Am features the best studio musicians in Memphis including Evan Leake, Steve Potts, Rick Steff and Dave Smith, all members of Sandy's band. She is also backed by Memphis vocalists Reba Russell and Daunielle "Pie" Hill. The songs are an eclectic mix covering a wide swath of her musical influences, ranging from ballads, blues/rock and gospel, to New Orleans second line and country. The title track was written by her, Luther Allison and James Solberg and released by Luther Allison on his Reckless album. Just As I Am has received a rating of 9 out of 10 by Blueswax with its rave review noting the strength of the album is the songwriting and vocal talent of Sandy Carroll herself.

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