Contrary to popular opinion on shows such as X Factor, having a good singing voice just isn’t enough to make it as a credible, life-affirming recording artist. If you don’t have the sonic arsenal to back up that stellar set of pipes, then you’d best rethink your plan of action. Sadly, for all of Grainne Duffy’s skill as a blues vocalist, her songs on her debut Out Of The Dark just don’t cut it. Apart from the odd track (‘Bring It Together,’ ‘Thrill Is Gone’) they limp along in a middle of the road fashion and there’s no spark of originality to be found anywhere on the record. It’s a shame because she has a one of a kind voice, but hopefully she’ll find her way by the time it comes to release a follow up.