The press release promises an album of 'brooding intensity', and so the first track came as something of a surprise. 'A Girl Gets By' has a swing to it, as well as a lightness of touch that makes for an appealing and accessible opening. With it's 'making the best of a bad situation' sentiment, it paints a portrait of positivity and inspiring resilience.
Marta soon fulfils the promise of the press release, though, with 'These Days' and 'Milk & Honey' being beautifully crafted and subtly orchestrated folk compositions of a rare quality. There's a hint of later Fleetwood Mac about 'Back to the Middle', and Marta's voice is a definite strength: it's emotive and heartfelt without being overdone, sincere without being excessively earnest, and it's possible to forgive her the slightly weak and schmaltzy 'In the Name of Love' and the by-numbers 'Over to Your Side', because there's a real sense of spirit there.
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Even when showing her vulnerable side, Marta's performance is engaging and assured, making for an accomplished album.
Marta Online
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