Maria Kizirian is going to be a name that everyone in the Bay Area will be hearing about in the music scene. 
Her CD "On the Rocks!" is a fascinating journey through the mind and soul of the artist. The poppy-bluesesque 
songs have catchy hooks and great melodies throughout. The production of the album is great as well. Just when 
you think that the album stays in one genre on all the songs, you get suprised when it changes in a different 
direction. Maria's voice will captivate you as well. Her strong vocal capabilities will knock you down. Go and 
get the album.
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The Voutilainens are an important part of rock history from  Northern Finland.  Jukka came first with the “Tonics” and then little brother Jake with “Battaglia Nobility.” 

Now Jake has made songs together with his daughter, Maria Kizirian, who lives in San Francisco.  “On The Rocks” is Maria’s calling card to the US market and world of rock.  The rawer action seems to work better for her than the blue-eyed soul that she recorded earlier for Finland’s EMI.

When listening to “On The Rocks” one is convinced that Finland-born Maria is absolutely the most talented out of the singing Voutilainens. Cool expressions and voice can of course also be found in Laura, but not the same depth and edge as Maria has.

Maria’s voice is best given justice in the slower bluesy renditions.  The album’s true pearl is blues ballad “Rebel Heart,” which makes even the most callous soul melt.  Jake makes it perfect with his guitar playing, which admirably supports Maria’s singing with its scarcity.  These sparing inflections bring to mind namely Robert Cray’s play at its best.  

Even though you can hear music ranging from eighties heavy to country rock, the father and daughter’s joint sound originates from black rhythm music.  In addition to “Rebel Heart,” the work is most convincing in the funk “Feels So Bad It’s Good,” and in the soul ballad “Pain In My Heart.”

The only greater flaw on the record “On The Rocks” is “Mr. X,” for which there is also a high definition video.  Even though behind it is Michael Ross, who is known for his work on Christina Aguilera’s records, it is shuddering how over-produced it is.  Instead, Jake, who carried the main responsibility of the remaining songs, has not polished them too much, but maintained the edge.  And my hat is off for that.
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I just can’t get enough of Maria Kizirian's new album. She has found the perfect arrangements to showcase your powerhouse vocals and true grit passion. Amazing work!
REBEL HEART gave me absolute chills... such awesome power and depth.
Another favourite is YOU INVADE MY DREAMS.
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