It’s nice to find a fresh new artist getting major press and recognition from both Spin and Rolling Stone. Anya Marina’s Slow and Steady… is a tightly honed collection of winking pop gems and slyly sexy rock and roll that showcases this newcomer’s deft melodic sensibility and wryly humorous lyrical point of view. Anya’s sound is part Norah Jones-Suzanne Vega with a splash of Liz Phair attitude. Producers Brian Karscig and Britt Daniel (of Spoon) helps jump her to the next stage of artistic development from the early demos of Miss Halfway. The opening single “Move You” is a real keeper with an infectious beat and Anya’s cooing vocal. Other highlights here include the silky smooth “All The Same To Me” with jazzy sax highlights and the garage-styled guitar riffs on “Afterparty at Jimmy’s” where she flirts with the keen promoter of her band. The lesser tracks do not disappoint either, although the standard “Waters Of March” seems to have too much of coffee house vibe. By the whispering tones of “High On The Ceiling” you’ll be ready to hit the repeat button. The album is expected out 1/20/09.
My Space | Itunes (Move You single) | CD Baby (Miss Halfway)