The anticipation for Marina + The Diamonds‘ upcoming album only seems to grow exponentially with each new song that surfaces these days.
Following the release of her unbelievably incredible Stargate-produced single “Radioactive” at the end of September, the indie-pop UK songstress has been hard at work putting the finishing touches on her as-of-yet untitled sophomore effort, due out sometime in 2012.
Enter “Starring Role”: A brand new track that just leaked today, rumored to have been recorded for the upcoming album. If that’s the case, no wigs are safe when Marina unleashes Album #2, because this new tune’s as absolutely brilliant as her latest single.
Stretched across a minimal, slow-building electronic beat, Marina positively seethes about a lover that’s not quite reciprocating in the emotional department. Though the song’s producer is still unconfirmed, its electro-organic feel reminds me of Guy Sigsworth‘s productions (Imogen Heap, Alanis Morrissette), or even a tinge of William Orbit‘s chillier work on Madonna‘s Ray Of Light.
But the true genius of this one? The writing. Lyrically, “Starring Role” is absolutely stellar. The balance between fragile and furious works perfectly. A few examples:
When you’re in my bed, all you give me is a heartbeat.
The only time you open up is when we get undressed.
You don’t love me, big fucking deal/I’ll never tell you how I feel.
I’d rather walk alone than play a supporting role.
Sometimes I ignore you so I feel in control/’Cause really I adore you, and I can’t leave you alone.
Amazing. Between this and “Radioactive,” are we looking at an early contender for Album of 2012? Certainly seems that way.
EDIT: Marina herself uploaded the song to YouTube over the weekend. Listen now!
“Radioactive” was released on September 30. (iTunes)