Image from http://www.the-tune.net
One of many musicians crossing over from the UK market, Marina and the Diamonds stands apart from the rest.
Marina Lambrini Diamandis, better known as Marina and the Diamonds, is a Welsh singer-songwriter on the path to household notoriety. After soaring to second place in BBC’s Sound of 2010 poll, Diamandis’ tumultuous career reached a new high.
The musician has released two extended plays exclusively to her European audience: the self-recorded, six-track Mermaid Vs. Sailor EP originally sold on Diamandis’ MySpace page in 2007, and the three-track Crown Jewels EP through Neon Gold Records in 2009.
Now the artist has not one, but two, full length albums under her belt- 2010’s The Family Jewels and 2012’s Electra Heart. No longer a newcomer to the music scene, Diamandis has come a long way since the days of single-digit audiences. With 2010’s American Jewels EP transitioning the artist onto American airwaves, Marina and the Diamonds is ready to go with the newly released US version of Electra Heart.
Available on iTunes as of July 10th, the US release features a new song titled “How to Be a Heartbreaker,” as well as remixed versions of “Primadonna” and “Power and Control.” Unfortunately, several songs from the European release didn’t make the cut, notable track “Living Dead” found among those dropped.
With edgy lyrics reminiscent of Katy Perry’s debut album One of the Boys, and an overall sound similar to artist Florence and the Machine, Electra Heart serves as a promising full-length début for American listeners.
The album opens with “Bubblegum Bitch,” an upbeat track welcoming the listener into “the life of Electra Heart.” The album’s lead single, “Primadonna,” follows, a catchy tune about wanting another’s adoration. Ballad “Lies” and seemingly soft-spoken track “Power & Control” give the pop album a rough edge.
“Teen Idle,” is another noteworthy track, depicting a brilliant contradiction and the age-old desire for something different.
While this may be the first time you’ve heard about Marina and the Diamonds, it certainly won’t be the last. Coinciding with Electra Heart’s US release, Marina and the Diamonds is bringing the “Lonely Hearts Club” tour to North America! Upcoming dates and locations can be found at marinaandthediamonds.com.
