Greek-Welsh artist Marina Diamantis, who once performed under the name Marina and the Diamonds and now goes simply by Marina, has been a fixture in pop music for 15 years. Her breakthrough came when she placed second to Ellie Goulding in the BBC’s “Sound of 2010” poll. Soon after, she secured a record deal and released three albums in five years, gaining popularity in the U.K. and becoming known for things like supporting Katy Perry and Coldplay, cultivating a Tumblr following, and having a 2016 Twitter feud with Charli XCX — a conflict that has since been resolved.
Although she’s remained active, her latest release, “Princess of Power,” marks a dramatic change — a fresh approach to both her musical style and image, captured in the lyric “I’ve been living life locked up in tower/ But now I’m blooming like a flower.” The album features vibrant electronic beats and bold, sometimes provocative lyrics. One standout single, widely regarded as the strongest track, is titled “C—tissimo.” These lyrics contrast sharply with her intentionally stylized vocal delivery, which occasionally shifts into soaring soprano moments. The effect, particularly in terms of lyrical surprise, recalls recent work by Sabrina Carpenter.
Despite its dance-floor appeal, the album draws heavily from 1980s British pop. Marina’s vocal flair evokes Queen, while rich orchestration and melodies reminiscent of late-era ABBA add to the texture. Elements of Madonna and Lady Gaga also influence the project. Yet the most striking evolution lies in its mood — a playful, exaggerated sense of luxurious boredom present throughout the lyrics. One example from “C—tissimo”: “I’m sweet and I’m icy and strange/ Indecisive, obsessive, I crave a glass of ice-cold champagne/ We go to Lake Como and take over a château/ Do people still say YOLO?” The record also includes a slower track called “Hello Kitty,” which features the line “Mrroww, mrroww” delivered in a comically regal tone.
At a stage when many artists begin to plateau, “Princess of Power” signals a bold new beginning for Marina.
