Tom Jessen’s Dimestore Outfit – Redemption
Every new artist has a lifetime to write the songs for their debut album. Few of those debut albums, however, sound like the culmination of a life’s work. Tom Jessen’s debut disc is that kind of release.
Most of the tracks on Redemption are acoustic-guitar-driven country songs layered with electric rock guitar. Standout cuts such as ” ’57 Chevy” and “Another Saturday Night” have a rootsy yet propulsive feel. But Jessen isn’t afraid to take a chance; the ambitious arrangements on songs such as “Do As Yer Told” and “Highway 3 West” are supported by a bevy of players who add subtle touches of horns, strings and percussion.
The most satisfying song on the disc is its quietest, “Gabrielle,” a beautiful ballad that finds Jessen professing love for his girl and his new motorcycle. The accompaniment of guitar, steel guitar and keyboards never overwhelms the understated melody. This is a confident, mature record by a promising songwriter.