Denise Marsa’s PIVOTAL, her first full-length release in years, is a extravagant collection of pop songs that maintains vibrancy and self-expression like no other. Admired for branching out into various genres and refusing to be pigeonholed, Marsa is a breath of fresh air in the contemporary music scene – this album is here to prove why.
PIVOTAL kicks off with ‘Roll With Me’, an infectious pop track that sets the tone. Undoubtedly catchy and memorable, this melodic opener explores themes of desire and personal resilience, setting the stage for an emotionally variant listening experience.
From the heartfelt lulls of ‘Secrets’, to the sweeping ballad, ‘Dry Spell’, Marsa reaffirms her versatility as a songwriter and ability to evoke depth track after track. PIVOTAL paints its own colourful, enchanting narrative, drawing from personal experiences of loneliness, self-growth, discovery and love. Its vulnerability leaves a lasting powerful impact – one that is sure not to falter long after the first listen.
Produced by Marsa alongside Janosch Roth, Anna Paulin, and Viktor Becker of Lautstumm Studios in Germany, PIVOTAL is musically diverse and fascinating. The album draws from a large pool of influences, from the haunting electronica of dance-pop to the mystical harmonies and illusive rhythms that define Marsa’s unique sound.
‘Rainbow (Until Dawn Remix)’, closes the album on a euphoric note. This LGBTQ+ anthem calls for hope, optimism and togetherness, which is encouraged by a glorious influx of vibrant guitar, serene strings and silky-soft vocals. It’s poised to be a summer chart-topper, encapsulating the album’s spirit of inclusivity and love.
The album’s cohesive sound, blending elements of pop, soul, and folk, ensures a captivating listening experience from start to finish. Denise Marsa has created a body of work that is not only a pleasure to listen to but also a beacon of inspiration. It’s a reminder of the beauty that can emerge from life’s challenges, much like a rainbow after a storm. For fans of sincere, beautifully crafted music, this album is not one to miss.
