Shane Gilchrist
presents a special Summer Times selection of albums
worth exploring. Today: Gin Wigmore gets her groove on with
sophomore album Gravel and Wine.
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.
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