Rockin', clever, girly & fun
The Delite Rancher | Phoenix, Arizona | 02/10/2009
(4 out of 5 stars)
""Slow & Steady Seduction, Phase II" delivers, but with some issues. It is best to skip past the first few tunes. The top of this album sounds too corporate radio friendly. Some of Anya's charm is washed out when appealing to such mainstream sensibilities. (I will admit that 'Cut it Out' has actually grown on me.) The album finally fires on all pistons with 'Drop Dead Blues.' From here on out, the album returns to Anya bliss. The rest of the album enjoys that time-tested brand of clever girliness. The sound generally ranges from rock to indie folk. 'Vertigo' is one of the highlights. Not replicating her previous work, this material is more produced. Leaning away from indie folk, this new direction gives "Slow & Steady Seduction" a more commercial presentation. At times this new production employs electric guitars, large scale vocal dubbing and a philharmonic orchestra. The spectacular oddity here is 'Águas de Março.' As sang by Antonio Carlos Jobim and Elis Regina, I have long been enchanted by the Bossa Nova classic. Anya's rendition is pure ear candy. Comparatively, these songs are good but not as strong as those on her debut. The humor isn't quite as funny, the observations aren't quite as poignant and the melodies aren't as compelling. Length is another issue with this sophomore album. Even before removing the first few songs, the total length is only 35 minutes. Should you buy "Slow & Steady Seduction?" Coming from somebody who's been listening to Anya since the "Exercises in Racketeering" EP was first released, yes. "Slow & Steady Seduction, Phase II" is a good album, but if you're new to Anya Marina, start with "Miss Halfway.""
Love her!
S. Casey | 05/18/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Most of the time I'm not a fan of female artists, but I love Anya Marina. Her music is so unqiue and original. I loved it from the first time I heard it. Anya Marina is an amazing singer and songwriter and this album proves it."
Love this album!
L. Wilson | Chicago, IL | 05/16/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I'll admit I had never heard of Anya Marina before she opened up for Jason Mraz this spring. But now I am hooked - this is a great album and I look forward to hearing more from this talented musician."