This artist is a real firecracker with sparks flying everywhere on her latest release titled ‘My Queen’. Diana Anaid and her new album are nothing shorty of musical royalty with an overall luxurious sound that dominates the entire record. Diana is no stranger to the music scene as she experienced some success in the late 90s and 2000s, but ‘My Queen’ is Anaid’s first album in 7 years. I have to say that it’s so worth the wait because these 11 songs are instant Gold and perfectly crafted gems.
Diana Anaid is an Australian singer/songwriter with so much punch to her music as she delivers a knockout performance on this album. Diana has been compared to other popular singer/songwriters such as: Liz Phair, PJ Harvey and Ani DiFranco and I would even throw in Michelle Branch and Fiona Apple who all scored big hits in the 90s. So, it makes sense that Diana would exhibit these same elements of that 90s Rocker Girl with extreme sensibility/purpose. But, that would just be scratching the surface when it comes to the depth of Diana Anaid and her roots because I was hearing all different influences from Punk and Ska to Pop/Rock and Folk. Diana is far from an open book or predictable and her latest record proves that notion and also proves that she is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
As I hit play on Spotify, I hear the song “Into Your Heart” that is pumping loving melodies into my ears with edgy, Pop vocals standing out. The track is vocally & lyrically vibrant as Diana sings “What makes the spirit dance” and the answer is “Into Your Heart”. Next up, one will get a superb hook and delicate singing where Diana Anaid just “Wants to be a better girl and see a better world”. On the next track, “Can’t Apologize”, the listener will experience a bit of attitude and Cyndi Lauper theme where “Girls Just Want To Have Fun” and rock out! On track 4, “Reassure Me”, I sense a gripping and sincere fullness that is more than reassuring to hear. “Mortify Me” showcases Diana giving off a little old-school, Gwen Stefani/No Doubt vibe whereas the title track displays deep meaning and graceful tones. On the song “Braveheart”, it comes as no surprise to me that Diana is strong & fierce giving a commanding & courageous performance. Anaid ends things swiftly on “Leaving Town” where it’s just one super-charged set!
Diana Anaid sings, plays and writes from the heart and performs with such passion and flair. This is a true artist for Today and one individual that should not be overlooked. ‘My Queen’ is a perfect example of hard work, dedication and timing where everything comes together in harmonious fashion. This album should put Diana on the map as a powerhouse female singer/songwriter and also should receive many accolades, recognition and airplay. I can’t wait to hear what Diana Anaid will create next, but for now ‘My Queen’ is proving to be a royal flush.
By Jimmy Rae (jrae2@att.net)
