Terry's Reviews
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Music Reviews: |
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Toy Soldiers:
The Best of Martika Columbia/Legacy 2005 |
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| "Toy
Soldiers" is a prime example where magic was made. Everything came together perfectly
for Martika. The musical arrangement with dreamy electronic backdrop, soft hypnotic guitar
rhythm, echoed drums mixed beautifully with haunting childrens choir and topped by
Martikas passionate voice. Its a memorable song that takes everyone back to
when they first heard the song. This is the song Martika will always be remembered for and
rightfully so. "I Feel the Earth Move" is Martikas second most known song. The song is more generic featuring a standardized dance beat and musical accompaniment. "More Than You" could be Sheila E. or a dozen other performers. Martikas most impressive contribution to this song is listening to her numerous wide-ranging background vocals. The third track is "Water (Remix)" has a common late 80s musical composition. For me this proves that the music is as vital to a songs quality as is Martikas powerful voice. Martika goes into Prince territory with "Martikas Kitchen." Its a saucy, funky little tune that brings out more of the Cuban fireballs sexuality. "Coloured Kisses" is a cute little song where Martika playfully uses her multi-dimensional voice. "Cross My Heart" is a dance tune that could be from any number of performers. "Temptation" has a cool clean rhythm guitar part and the background vocals almost bring a religious, soulful addition to what essentially is a dance track. I also liked Martikas spoken words towards the end of the song. "Dont Say U Love Me" is Janet Jackson styled. "Safe in the Arms of Love" feels more R&B and is more mature than all the dance tracks. This musical environment allows Martikas voice to really carry the tune. "Quiero Entregarte Mi Amor" is a Spanish Version of "More Than You Know." There is also a Club Mix of "I feel The Earth Move." There is Japanese Version of "Toy Soldiers." Prince wrote "Love Thy Will Be Done (Prince Mix)" and is the last track. In the linear notes you find out that Marta "Martika Marrero was born in California after her parents fled Cuba shortly after the revolution. She took dance and voice lesions from the age of four and developed into a promising ballerina before catching "the acting bug." At the age of 13 she emerged as a dancer in John Hustons movie ANNIE before appearances in DIFFERENT STROKES, SILVER SPOONS and HARDCASTLE & McCORMICK and the high profile role of singing and dancing in the TV series KIDS INCORPORATED. Martika admits she didnt know which direction to go until she saw Boy George, then she said thats it, "Im gonna be a pop star." |
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