Released 01/02/10

Neon Gold Records

Hot on the heels of every other feisty female singer that has a marketable quirk and 'witty' lyrics (see Lily Allen, Florence and the Machine, and Lady Gaga) comes Marina and The Diamonds from Abbergaveny in Wales.

Single 'Hollywood' is a slice of pop with an alleged social commentary running throughout its lyrics,(though one would wonder what exactly it is that a 20 something girl from Abbergaveny who now lives in London actually knows about the 'mess that's America'  that she bemoans here?)

This is a well produced track that has more than a touch of Katy Perry about it, especially in the glittery synths that swoop in on the chorus and the throaty vocals that sit on top. Marina has a wonderfully charismatic voice that is suprisingly endearing which could be used to better effect on a better song. 

Whilst it is catchy and upbeat this track is really nothing special, lacking the mass appeal of Katy Perry but being too kitch to be as cool as Florence. Find your niche Marina - 'cus this aint it. 

Posted In Single Reviews, Feb 09 2010. Words - Lara