L.A.-based Marina V makes a big point of marketing herself as a Russian-born singer-songwriter. While it's understandable that an unknown musician will use every possible angle to gain attention, the strength of the songs and the virtuosic singing she displays on her first album ought to provide her the kind of rep that lets her move beyond the gimmickry of touting her birthplace.

Like a more accessible, pop-oriented Kate Bush, Marina writes luxuriant pop songs that have more hooks than a strip of Velcro. Leading her band from the piano, Marina's compositions have the feel of tunes so strong they could stand on their own in a solo environment. But with a full band behind her on this recording (before a live audience), her songs take on a sheen that is enough to transfix the listener. (Special note must be made of fellow L.A. singer-songwriter Shannon Hurley, whose harmony vocals rival Marina's own voice.)

Still, the main ingredient in all this musical goodness is Marina's voice. It is near crystalline in its tonal purity, somewhere between that of Bush and Judy Collins. As with those singers, though, it isn't just the physical beauty of the voice that seduces, but how well she uses it. Pliant and expressive and clearly trained, Marina's singing is one of those miracles of both nature and nurture. The Beatles' "Here, There and Everywhere" is a perfect showcase for her voice, and she turns in one of the all-too-rare Beatles covers that can rival the original.

Great songs, one of the most beautiful voices on the planet, looks to rival most Hollywood starlets ---- Marina V seems destined for fame and fortune. Get in on the ground floor.
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This girl is on the verge of being a breakout star for 2007.  You can find out why by listening to her CDs.  The playing is extraordinary, vocals are flawless, and her songs are well written.  You can really listen to these and enjoy them without being pounded over the head with production, too.  It's very well done.  And, if you're lucky enough to have a chance to see her in concert, don't miss it.  Tickets are low priced now, but that won't be the case much longer.  She has too much talent and her story is so interesting that she won't be obscure much longer.  Compared to Tori Amos, I'm very familiar with them both, and now I'll take Marina V, anytime!  She's what Tori USED to be!  Check her out.  You won't regret it!
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I almost didn't get this because I have all her other CDs and most of these tracks are available on her previous releases.  That would have been a BIG mistake.  After listening to it, I'd have to say if I only could keep one Marina V CD, this would have to be it.  Excellent new arrangements of the older material, and Marina's singing is as heartbreakingly beautiful as ever.  The three new tracks (two originals and a Lennon/McCartney cover) are awesome as well; in fact "Unbalanced" is worth the price of admission all by itself, and if "Father" doesn't bring a tear to your eye you might just be dead already.  Exquisite work from a beautiful lady.  Two words: Buy it!
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I think this album is amazing. I have been listening to it nonstop ever since I got it in the mail. It's great to hear the new songs and the new versions of the songs I already have on other CDs. The stories Marina tells are very endearing and get you even closer to Marina as an artist. Thank you for the beautiful album!
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