Charlotte Martin – One Girl Army (Bong Load)
Charlotte Martin has definitely embraced her inner Tori Amos. A gifted pianist and former opera singer, Charlotte’s debut CD, One Girl Army, delivers passionate, piano-pop hooks, pleasing both the Top 40 and indie crowds. Think female Ben Folds. Charlotte sings with a honeyed soprano as quivery and exquisite as chiffon. Hip industrial loops and effects lay a stylish foundation for her piano prowess, which is filled with finesse and ultra-feminine strength. One Girl Army is being released on indie label Bong Load Records (in stores April 23), though future albums will be on RCA, with whom she just signed. While Charlotte’s lyrics, vocal inflections, and piano voicings tip a hat to her influences (lyrics like “lipstick coalition”, and “beauty queens” hanging out in “trailer parks” do smack of Tori), her distinguished voice, solid keyboard chops, and melody-crafting skills prove her potency as a musician. Tracks to check out are the funky “Getting Even” (complete with scratches), and the reflective ballad “Dangled.” If her advancement to the major labels helps her develop a more refined, signature sound, bright days lie ahead for Charlotte Martin