Music Album Review: Regina Spektor's "Begin to Hope"

I got myself last week a special 2-CD edition of Regina Spektor's newest album, "Begin to Hope". And the only absolute thing I can say about it is that it's full of surprises. But, those familiar with the Russian-American singer-songwriter's work know that to listen to Spektor is to expect the unexpected.

For those unfamiliar with Regina Spektor's music, be warned: Her second major-label release, "Begin to Hope" (the first being "Soviet Kitsch" released worldwide in 2003/2004), is misleading. The seemingly sentimental title and the cute picture of the artist on the cover will have you thinking easy-listening and adult contemporary.

Indeed, one minute into the first song, everything sounds like your usual radio-friendly number-light, synthesized and easily "digestible." Before the minute is over, however, you'll get your first hint of Spektor's idiosyncratic style when you hear her chop the word "heart" into a dozen syllables! [Read Full Review]