Need To Know: Marina and the Diamonds

Marina Lambrini Diamandis, better known as Marina and the Diamonds, releases her debut album, The Family Jewels, in the U.S. today. At turns rocking, campy, and theatrical, the poppy album hasn't left our heavy rotation list since we first heard it back in February and it's already in the running to be one of favorite records of the year.

We caught up with the charming Welsh singer-songwriter to chat about how she got her start in music, feminism and the sex industry's influence on female pop stars, and coming to America:

Check out her video for the single "Hollywood" and then head to her official site for more info and a full list of tour dates (she'll be heading out on the road to join Lilith Fair for a slew of shows this summer):

Finally, Marina's single, "I Am Not A Robot," is the free download of the week at iTunes. Get it while it's hot (and doesn't cost you a penny).

-- NOAH MICHELSON

Previously > First Look: Kylie Minogue's Orgy-tastic New Video