Sarah Griffin’s debut album Above The Parapet is a musical masterpiece. From the opening bars of ‘A Thousand Ways’ to the dying refrain of the aptly named final track ‘Over You’, the listener is taken on an emotional journey, at once both uplifting and inspiring. Drifting through indie, folk, blues and pop, Sarah Griffin crosses many genres and truly offers something for everyone.

I have seen Sarah play live on a number of occasions, and have eagerly anticipated the arrival of this album. However, I was not prepared to be blown away so completely by the quality of this perfectly structured record. Above the Parapet is one of the most accomplished albums I have heard in a very long time, irrespective of the fact that this is a debut. Sarah’s voice is hauntingly beautiful and she is suitably complimented by her own superb arrangements, faultless harmonies and very talented band.

The album opens with ‘A Thousand Ways’ – a tender song about never quite finding the right words to tell someone how much you truly love them. The gentle percussion together with the subtle and tender harmonies make this song musical therapy – the perfect antidote to any stressful day. ‘Read Books and Grow’ is toe-tappingly brilliant – with dexterous mandolin and driving beat this song sets a musical challenge defying you not to dance. ‘Poet’ changes tempo again and gives way to a pretty guitar, which literally plucks at the heart’s strings as if it were part of the instrument itself. The real emotion in Sarah’s voice makes you feel that you have lived this song.

As the album continues, the tempo and style continue to change, yet weave together in a wholly harmonious collaboration. Never giving over to monotony and never dwelling too long on any one emotion, this multi-talented artist creates an accomplished and fully rounded sound. Comparisons could be made as a female Paulo Nutini, Artic Monkeys meets Lily Allen, or Sandi Thom, but none of these even start to do Sarah Griffin justice. As the final track begins with simple guitar, an unexpectedly bluesy, powerfully rich voice breaks through and never more has Sarah’s vocal talent been so aptly demonstrated. With searing dexterity and a delightfully unexpected twist midway through, you’ll find yourself hitting repeat as soon as the track ends.

I realise that this review is full of enthusiasm and passion, but this album is truly superb. The songs feel like old favourites even on a first play and have all the makings of instant classics. This is a brilliantly structured album, and I for one simply cannot recommend it highly enough.

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