A truly impressive debut record.

'Force Of Nature' is the debut album from raven haired New York native Sari Schorr. The album came about from involvement with producer Mike Vernon, who has a formidable list of credentials including the likes of Fleetwood Mac, Eric Clapton, Peter Green, John Mayall, Savoy Brown and David Bowie. Schorr introduced herself, touting for the semi-retired Vernon to produce her. Intrigued, he asked to hear some material, the two then began corresponding and Vernon became so enamored with the songs Schorr was bringing to the table that he agreed to take the helm.

As soon as 'Ain't Got No Money' bursts out of the speakers, the quality of the Blues on offer is immediately apparent. What does come as a very pleasant surprise is not only is Schorr a skilled writer, she has an immense voice. A heady blend of grit, smokiness, attitude, sass and power, her delivery is highly impressive, reminiscent of some of the things Beth Hart did with Joe Bonamassa. The entertaining 'Aunt Hazel' sees her Rock things up a bit while 'Cat And Mouse' employs some tasteful Funk guitar, with the wah-wah peddle meshing beautifully with an organ to underpin the Blues vibe. The smokey Bar-room number 'Work No More' is another notable track for the searing guitar work of special guest Walter Trout.

Schorr also adds a couple of covers to the mix, taking on 'Black Betty' which most people remember best from Ram Jam's souped up Classic Rock take. Here, Schorr takes it back to the Lead Belly original, with a sparse intro before the band thunder in, keeping the pace slow but the sound heavy. It's a clever take on an old track and Schorr employs a similar tactic on The Supremes' 'Stop In The Name Of Love', slowing it down into a straight Blues workout.

The slide guitar of 'Demolition Man' is excellent, while 'Kiss Me' sees Schorr's voice covering all the bases from sultry and seductive to a full on roar. If I were to be super critical, I'd say at twelve tracks spanning almost an hour, the album is maybe two songs too long, but that really is me trying to find fault in the interests of balance. Other than that, this is a truly impressive debut record and Schorr is another welcome addition to what seems to be an increasingly fertile Blues Rock scene.

James Gaden

View the official video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08Fd_P53FZQ

Photo: Rob Blackman