I’m not interested in artists with a lot of polish. I want to know about the good, the bad, and the ugly. I want it raw and real. And that’s exactly why Dirty Laundry, the debut album from country singer-songwriter Sammy White, is so appealing.
As the title of her album suggests, Sammy isn’t afraid to tell it like it is. This is a confessional body of work with songs that touch on Sammy’s sense of self and her relationships, especially with fellow country artist Brad Cox. He guests on the romantic ballad “Love on the Line,” which touches on the challenges of sustaining a relationship as travelling musicians. Songs celebrating the strong women in regional areas like “Country as Cow Shit”, “Diamonds and Dolly”, and “You Sound Like Me” are bound to resonate with her fans. However, you don’t need to be from the country, or even a fan of country music, to appreciate this music. I really related to the picture of a peaceful, uncomplicated love she draws in “Countryside.” “I’ll Do Me, You Do You,” the beautiful ballad of acceptance featuring Brad Butcher which closes the album, is another stunning song.
Listening to Dirty Laundry, it’s difficult to believe that Sammy was nominated for New Talent of the Year at the 2022 Golden Guitar Awards. Just a year on she sounds so seasoned, confident in her vocals and her message. This album paints a picture of a performer who knows herself and is unafraid to share that with the world. It’s refreshing and so exciting to hear. Dirty Laundry is out now. Sammy is currently supporting Brad Cox on his Australian tour, so make sure you get there early if you’ve got tickets to the remaining shows:
22 June 2023 – The Cambridge Hotel, Mulubinba/Newcastle
23 June 2023 – Manning Bar, Eora/Sydney
24 June 2023 – Anita’s Theatre, Thurraral Country/Thirroul
Images used with permission from Sammy White