Who: A teenager when her song Hallelujah won the 2005 International Songwriting Contest, Gin Wigmore's victory over more than 10,000 entries led to her signing with Universal/Motown Records in the United States. In 2008 she put out debut EP Extended Play, then released single Under My Skin in 2009, when she also teamed up with hip-hopper Smashproof for the successful Brother before completing her first album, Holy Smoke.
About the album: Though there's no avoiding the Macy Gray duck-on-helium comparisons, Wigmore proves she can offer far more than histrionic stylings here. Her lyrics, razor-sharp and, occasionally, a mixture of the vampish and vulnerable, provide a sensuous cloak, under which writhe a bombastic blend of smoky jazz dive and sparkling pop arena. Less about posturing, more about passion, Gravel and Wine confirms a fascinating talent. Impeccable phrasing, too.
Highlight: If Only.
For those who like: Nina Simone meets Brenda Lee.
