Holy Smoke cover

Holy Smoke

Gin Wigmore · 2009

37 min · 10 tracks · folk rock

A raw blend of folk rock and pop energy, infused with Gin Wigmore's distinctive raspy vocals and emotive storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Hey Ho — This track showcases Wigmore's vocal prowess and catchy melodies, serving as a standout anthem that encapsulates the album's vibrant spirit.
  • →
    Mr. Freakshow — With its playful lyrics and infectious rhythm, this track highlights Wigmore's ability to blend dark themes with upbeat instrumentation.
  • →
    Dying Day — Ending the album on a poignant note, this song combines emotional depth with haunting melodies, reflecting the overarching themes of love and loss.

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 engaging songwriting but lacks a cohesive flow across all tracks.

What we noticed

  • Wigmore's vocals are consistently raspy and emotive, often layered with harmonies that enhance the storytelling aspect of the lyrics.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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, consistent energy levels
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • engaging storytelling experience
  • mid-tempo reflective moments

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 2009, Holy Smoke marked Gin Wigmore's debut album after gaining attention for her demos. At this point in her career, she was transitioning from relative obscurity to becoming a recognized artist in the New Zealand music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Lissie· Brandi Carlile· Of Monsters and Men

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • New Revolution

    The lyrics shift from a critique of societal norms to an empowering call for change captures a pivotal transition in tone.

    This change in perspective transforms the song into an anthem of self-empowerment, illustrating how personal struggles can inspire broader social movements.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Oh My 4:17
  • 2 Hey Ho 4:04
  • 3 New Revolution 4:22
  • 4 Don’t Stop 3:28
  • 5 I Do 4:08
  • 6 Too Late for Lovers 3:48
  • 7 Mr. Freakshow 3:51
  • 8 One Last Look 2:37
  • 9 Golden Ship 3:55
  • 10 Dying Day 3:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata