Sassafrass! is the sixth studio album by Canadian-New Zealand country singer Tami Neilson, released in June 2018.
Production
The album was inspired by Neilson's experiences of becoming a mother, losing her father and turning 40. She felt that the album expressed her "coming into confidence as a woman" and is a celebration of her newly-found freedom. Because of this, many of the songs on the album focused on gender equality. Sonically, Neilson was inspired by musicians including Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Big Mama Thornton and Mavis Staples. The song "Miss Jones" was written as a tribute to Sharon Jones.
The album's title, Sassafrass!, is a slang term referring to a self-assured person.
Release and promotion
Three singles were released from the album: "Stay Outta My Business" in March 2018, "Manitoba Sunrise at Motel 6" in May and "Devil in a Dress" in July, a month after the album's release.
Reception
At the 2018 New Zealand Music Awards, Sassafrass! was nominated for the Album of the Year award, and led to Neilson being nominated for the Best Solo Artist award.
Track listing
Credits and personnel
Brett Adams – guitar Chris Chetland – mastering Ashley Church – photography Anita Clark – strings Georgie Clifford – backing vocals Sarena Close – backing vocals Reuben Derrick – horns Ben Edwards – co-producer, mixing engineer Natalee Fisher – hair, make-up Mike Hall – bass Nyree Huyser – backing vocals Dave Khan – strings Jules Koblun – artwork design Joe McCallum – drums, percussion Tami Neilson – acoustic guitar, co-producer, vocals Cameron Pearce – horns Josh Petrie – assistant engineer Gwyn Reynolds – horns Scott Taitoko – horns Neil Watson – guitar, pedal steel guitar
Charts
Weekly charts + Weekly chart performance for Sassafrass! Chart (2018) Peakposition
Year-end charts + Year-end chart performance for Sassafrass!Chart (2018)Position New Zealand Artist Albums (RMNZ) 12
Release history + Release dates and formats for Sassafrass! Region Date Format(s) Label(s) New Zealand 1 June 2018 Neilson Records, Southbound
References