Grief can take us to uncertain places. With the death of her father, singer/songwriter Tami Neilson teaches us a thing or two with her new release, Don’t Be Afraid. No doubt, Tami’s album is heartfelt. But, Don’t Be Afraid also provides Americana music fans a collective, holistic, and definitive set of tracks that will resonate as her best work to date.
Tami opens with the title track, “Don’t Be Afraid.” This gospel spiritual piece sounds more of an anthem to a strange land. Co-written by her father, Ron Neilson before his passing, Tami gives listeners an astounding intro to her voice.
Another piece, “Lonely,” is an incredible tune. The song has a Brenda Lee/ Patsy Cline sense while adding a Ventures guitar to accompany her. Featured in a music video, “Lonely” is my favorite of all the tracks. Another awesome number, “So Far Away,” was spotlighted on the TV show, “Nashville.”
Aside from the demo version of “Don’t Be Afraid,” Tami’s final track, “The First Man,” again shows off her magnificent voice. The First Man sets the bar for the other tracks on the album.
Her fifth album, Don’t Be Afraid is no stranger to Tami Neilson’s success. Her last album, Dynamite!, was well received and award-winning. But, with the gospel sound of Don’t Be Afraid, Tami has taken herself to recent places, but with elevated inventiveness. She is an artist to follow as she continues her climb upward. Don’t Be Afraid is a sample of her sustained success. I’m J.R. Miller with High Note Reviews, and this is Tami Neilson encouraging us, Don’t Be Afraid.