Griff Ascends to New Heights: 'Vertigo' Redefines Alt-Pop with Depth and Daring

Three years after her breakout mixtape, 'Vertigo' finally grants her a broader palette to paint with, the alt-pop heroine delivering a vivid portrait of an artist in evolution.

From the opening notes of the title track, Griff establishes her newfound confidence. It's a bold move to open with ‘Vertigo’, but the assurance in her voice and the complexity of the composition dispel any residual doubts fans may have had. This track is a statement, a declaration that Griff has arrived and is here to stay.

The album continues to explore a range of emotions and themes. ‘Miss Me Too’ delves into the delicate subject of lost confidence, a theme many can relate to but few can articulate as poignantly as Griff. The sombre reflection of ‘Into The Walls’ is undeniably affecting, with its introspective lyrics and haunting melody lingering long after the song ends.

A song cycle of profound subtlety, 'Vertigo' finds room for varied musical explorations. The piano-led torch song ‘Astronaut’ showcases Griff’s ability to convey deep emotion with minimal instrumentation, allowing her voice to take center stage. In contrast, ‘Anything’ is a pointedly pop-centric exercise, its catchy hooks and upbeat tempo demonstrating her versatility. Despite the differing directions of these tracks, Griff seamlessly ties them together, creating a cohesive narrative throughout the album.

Closing with the introspective ‘Hole In My Pocket’, Griff ensures that ‘Vertigo’ has built-in replay value. This final track encapsulates the album’s themes of self-discovery and resilience, leaving listeners with a sense of closure and anticipation for what Griff will offer next.

In 'Vertigo', Griff has crafted a pop album with real depth. It’s an album that demands multiple listens, each one revealing new layers and nuances. Griff’s ability to evolve and expand her artistic vision makes 'Vertigo' a significant milestone in her career, and a testament to her talent and perseverance. This is not just a collection of songs, but a journey through the mind and heart of one of alt-pop’s most promising artists.