Regina Spektor
Back in the early aughts twee revival, Regina Spektor brought a refreshing darkness and cynicism. Although she dressed the part in retro dresses (probably ModCloth), a classic red lip, and elaborate hair accessories, Spektor's voice shook with emotion, and her songs were imbued with sexuality (i.e. "Hey, remember that time when we decided to kiss anywhere except the mouth?") And, unlike most music from that period, it still holds up! I still queue up "Us" on occasion if I need a good cry (you might remember it from the (500) Days of Summer soundtrack). Last year, she dropped her eighth album (and first in six years) Home, Before and After, which combines her classically trained piano chops with ethereal electronic production.
by Audrey Vann