Singer, actor and model Vera Brezhneva rocketed into public consciousness in the early ’00s when she successfully auditioned to join girl group VIA Gra—or Nu Virgos, as they were known outside of her native Ukraine. Departing the trio in 2007, Brezhneva announced her solo career with statement single “Я не играю” (“I’m Not Playing”). Clearly she meant it, releasing a string of tracks that led up to a debut album of determinedly eclectic pop in 2010. As she continues to reinvent her sound with elements of folk instrumentation and more, her bold and punchy conviction is ever resolute.