In Parentheses

On her major-label debut EP, In Parentheses, singer/songwriter Charlotte Martin makes it clear that she's her own woman and looks into issues of independence and self-critique with confidence. Martin is instantaneously compared to Kate Bush and Laura Nyro thanks to her dramatic, passionate playing style behind the piano, and In Parentheses is an impressive introduction to her blossoming 20-something frame of mind. It's fresh without falling prey to an adult contemporary tag and vibrant enough to dismiss any kind of Lilith Fair appeal. Her voice is wise beyond her years and the heavy-hearted production found on this four-track EP is merely a glimpse at Martin's raw talent. Songs like the soul-seeking "Your Armor" and the brassy dynamics of "Pretty Thing" showcase Martin's individuality as an artist and as a person. Like Tori Amos did when she first arrived in the early '90s, Martin exudes a haunting disposition that's almost untouchable. That's the beauty though — Martin keeps the listener on edge. She's positioned herself in a place that still makes her music interesting. In Parentheses is a good start for Martin, but stretching things out for a studio full-length might be a bit more work later on.