Music Album: Paradise (EP) by Lana Del Rey

The year 2012 brought unexpected success for Lana Del Rey, she rode high on the worldwide reception of her Born To Die CD, even though critics were not kind. After performing at prestigious industry events and embarking on a worldwide mini tour, she returned to the studio to record an extended EP that would be released along with a repackaging of her Born to Die album. The results of those recording sessions is Paradise - a 9-songs EP that pretty much follows the same direction as Born to Die and as a result, does not really add any substantial value to Lana's new found popularity.

Ride, is the thumping ballad produced by Rick Rubin and co-written with frequent collaborator Justin Parker. A brilliant introduction into the collection of new songs - Lana's voice still sounds mysterious, haunting and captivating all at once, its perfect blend with the upbeat instrumental make it more soothing. Her version of popular 50s track Blue Velvet could fool you and make you think you were in that era, she was able to capture the era vocally - which is impressive. Another highlight comes in form of the very dark Gods & Monsters - the musical arrangement is somewhat similar to another track of hers, Summertime Sadness. Many critics and fans alike have found the upbeat Burning Desire to be a favourite, which could easily make it the next single.

Lana maintains the same tempo and musical direction with this EP, even though they were newly recorded - the songs sound like they were leftovers of the Born to Die album anyway. The aforementioned songs make it an enjoyable listening experience, all we need to do is anticipate what her sound will be like on her next album, until then we can continue to enjoy the variety her voice offers.