“God and a Girl,” a folk/indie blend of faith-based songs, is the first full length release for artist Joy Whitlock and was released on Sept. 16. Whitlock, a newcomer to the Christian music scene, calls Memphis her home and recorded this album in Nashville with Ardent Records. Whitlock is best known for performing and recording with Christian artist Todd Agnew before releasing her debut. Although she is a self-proclaimed Sarah McLachlan admirer, Whitlock’s sound definitely takes another turn, boasting more edge and less melancholy than the piercing raw emotion of McLachlan’s ballads. Still, Whitlock packs her songs with feeling nonetheless, best displayed in the thankful reflection of “Your Face,” and the lyrical tension of “Faith Don’t Fall,” and “Beautiful.” While Whitlock has room to grow as an artist, this album shows depth and promise, especially for a debut. Four stars out of five.