by Kristin Anderson
I have a confession. At first glance of this stunning pint size powerhouse I expected to find a moderately talented, beautiful girl who'd slipped through the independent music cracks, lubed by a never ending hunger for the next hot songstress.
But much to my dismay I found a voice and sound rooted in true talent.
Unsure how Mary Jennings came to be, I found that
her musical expression came after the unexpected death of her mother. In the midst of tragedy, Jenning's father gave her the choice of recording an album or therapy. Jennings chose wisely and bestowed a raw and true feeling that’s outlet was graciously paid forward to her listeners.
"Storybook Ep" is chic music to the tenth power. Sweet and empowered, Jennings takes an Enya softness, a Tori Amos inspired piano,
some love-lorn lyrics and sings her little heart out. Her ability to move through her range of deep echoes to soft timbre is branded evidence
of her undeniable talent.
I was impressed with her ability to expose her perspective through her own eyes and invite the listener in.
Poetic and clearly produced in the most meticulous detail, each song has a longing that runs
from the depth
of Mary Jenning’s human need to be truly witnessed by others. Truly understood and believed in.
Her power ballads have already been recruited by an impressive list of shows in mainstream culture.
MTV’s "The Hills”, and "The Real World/Road rules Extreme All-Star Challenge" have both pounded on Jenning’s door
to use her talents of expression to get their point across. A sweet but unexpected cover of contemporary R&B singer Rhianna's
"Umbrella" gives new meaning to this pop anthem. If you wanted to use “Umbrella” as your wedding song, this would be the version for you.
Mary Jennings music has already bridged the gap from Independent to mainstream exposure.
Tapping into the spirit of a youthful, untainted hope that will speak to a new generation of dreamers.
A new crop of wanting that lives to be expressed. True validation of existence.
Expressions of a young artist who’s soul has endured, survived and conquered the defeat of life’s real hardship.
Returning from her trials unafraid, vulnerable, content, and proud to be herself and to be heard.
It doesn’t have to be your kind of music for you to hear that Jennings is naked in her expression.
I can only hope that Mary Jennings continues to give of herself so freely and branch out to every genre of
music that could benefit from her fearless approach.
Do it all Mary. Stop at nothing. Continue on this musical
pilgrimage and make your mark. You have the world at your feet. Try not to trip over it
and indie pop will crown a new princess.
__________
Song Sample:
Doorway
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Click here to purchase Jenning's EP, Storybook, at CD Universe.
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