In the year in which her famous almost-namesake Phil is put behind bars forever, Regina Spektor finally spreads her wings. Previously, the Russian-born but New York-based singer already released three albums with which she slowly but surely managed to increase her profile. Spektor distinguishes itself from its many competitors by its surefire, classically trained piano style and its preference for
… musical jokes, which it incorporates into smart pop songs. The drama of comparable singers like Tori Amos and Fiona Apple is completely absent at Spektor. On her fourth album Far, she has access to no less than four prominent producers: Mike Elizondo, David Kahne, Jacknife Lee and Jeff Lynne, all involved in countless great pop productions from the past. It is a testament to Spektor's great musical personality that the input of these skilled gentlemen never dominates. On the contrary, it is Regina herself who shines on this beautiful, melodic pop album. (MS)more
