What makes Gravel & Wine by Gin Wigmore notable?

The album features the hit single 'Black Sheep,' which received significant airplay and helped propel Wigmore into international recognition. It peaked at number 12 on the New Zealand Albums Chart, cementing her status as a rising star in the folk rock genre. Gravel & Wine is Gin Wigmore's debut studio album, released in 2011 after her breakthrough EP. At this point, she was establishing her presence in the music scene following early acclaim, particularly in her native New Zealand.

Who is Gravel & Wine for?

Gravel & Wine works well if you're into steady mid-tempo groove throughout, raw vocal delivery with grit and soulful melodies for reflective moments.

How many songs are on Gravel & Wine?

Gravel & Wine has 12 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Gravel & Wine

Gin Wigmore · 2011

40 min · 12 tracks · folk rock

A gritty blend of folk rock and pop that marries raw emotion with catchy melodies and powerful vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Black Sheep — 'Black Sheep' stands out with its infectious hook and vibrant energy, showcasing Wigmore's unique vocal style and lyrical storytelling.
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Kill of the Night — This track combines dark themes with an upbeat tempo, illustrating Wigmore's ability to blend contrasting elements while maintaining a catchy sound.
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Devil in Me — With its introspective lyrics and haunting melody, 'Devil in Me' reveals a deeper emotional layer to Wigmore's songwriting, highlighting her versatility.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong vocal performances and varied instrumentation but lacks a cohesive flow throughout.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features high-energy tracks with driving rhythms, while the second half shifts to more introspective and slower songs.
Vocals are prominently layered, often featuring harmonies that enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo groove throughout
raw vocal delivery with grit
soulful melodies for reflective moments
catchy hooks for sing-alongs
for late afternoon drives

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced, high-energy tracks
seek intricate, complex arrangements

Where this album fits

Career context: Gravel & Wine is Gin Wigmore's debut studio album, released in 2011 after her breakthrough EP. At this point, she was establishing her presence in the music scene following early acclaim, particularly in her native New Zealand.
Stylistic neighbors: Lissie· Brandi Carlile· Of Monsters and Men