2019 - Marina & The Kats - Swingsalabim

2019 - Marina & The Kats - Swingsalabim @320

The stage is set for Marina & the Kats! With their new album "Swingsalabim," they captivate us once again and venture into entirely new territory. Enveloped in the charm of nostalgia, the new songs dance right on the pulse of the times. Ringmaster Marina keeps her Kats firmly in her grasp with her uniquely fresh yet touching voice, constantly conjuring up new ideas from her hat

Her traveling circus has pitched its tents in countless places over the past two years. She knows what it's like to be "on the road," always keeping a small velvet-covered notebook in her red tailcoat, in which she writes little fables illustrated with large pictures. Fables of mice and elephants, endless roads, nights spent drinking, fantastical nightclubs among the stars, and life as a courted princess of the variety show.

But it's also about how to assert oneself as a director in a male-dominated world, how to stand one's ground when one is in charge. She also strikes more contemplative notes, slipping into the costume of a melancholy clown when she sings of the impending loss of a loved one. Emancipated from mere retro sounds, a completely new style emerges from her love for the spirit of burgeoning modernity, a style that is more than just a reference to bygone days. Independent, unmistakable. Sparkling, enchanting, right to the heart.

What was already hinted at on their two excellent albums, "Small" and "Wild," continues seamlessly on "Swingsalabim." The trio effortlessly combines light-footed, catchy rhythms with crisp songwriting and a distinct dose of fun. Marina & The Kats have long since found their identity. On their third album, they break free from sonic clichés and prejudices. The "smallest big band in the world" creates a vintage and retro sound reminiscent of bygone days without being overly confined to the aesthetics of that era. They skillfully keep an eye on current events, both musically and thematically, and blend diverse periods.

Marina and her band impress more than ever with new soundscapes and surprising twists. Alongside the classic, catchy swing elements in songs like "Get On With It" and "1000 Miles Ahead," the band ventures into new territory without losing their timelessly driving vintage sound. The bluesy "I Should Have Known Better" proves to be a powerful reflection on an eventful evening, "No No No" flirts with Balkan melodies, "Say What?" demonstrates that womanhood is free from clichés and patriarchal thinking, and "Wherever You May Go" reveals itself as a gentle declaration of love with graceful fragility.

Marina is always in charge and tells open and honest stories that have happened to all of us. Laughter, shouting, singing along, and even tears are expressly encouraged! Anyone who listens to her snare and cymbal sounds will inevitably start dancing. Thomas Mauerhofer and Peter Schönbauer support her on stringed instruments, creating a distinctive sound that goes far beyond mere swing. Marina & The Kats are a welcome respite from the often harsh realities of our time. With "Swingsalabim," they conjure up a good time and prove themselves masters of creating unique cascades of sound. The perfect soundtrack for parties with style and verve.(Jazz-Fun translated from German)

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