Not only is she equipped with a powerful set of pipes to rise above the computerized pop backdrop she sings too, she has something others are lacking - emotion. Rather than sounding like a creation or delivering a lackluster attempt at sounding credible, Svala comes off naturally alive.

Her voice is plentiful with soul and emotion, making the songs sound much more than generic pop tunes. Svala's words ring true, even though she doesn't write them; she puts herself in her songs and makes you believe everything she is pitching to you.

Refreshing and quite reassuring that even modern teen pop music can sound real again, Svala's The Real Me is primed for bigger and better things. Look out Brittney and Christina, there is a new kid on the block. I'll give this a B.15

Sutrobath: Aquatica

Svelt: Souvenir

[Issue Forty-One // October 2001]