Many Scarlett Johansson fans will probably be disappointed by the musical skills of their favorite actress. And many Tom Waits fans will consider it a blasphemy that a blond and sexy actress, freshly turned singer, dared to cover the art-rock legend’s songs.

But they might be too hasty in judging Johansson’s new album, “Anywhere I Lay My Head.”

In the first place, it is simply not fair to compare a 23-year-old girl with Tom Waits. Ok, she asked for it, by deciding to sing Waits’ songs, but she elegantly found an excuse for potential attackers before the album was launched.

"I'm not trying to prove anything on this album," she declared. "I could never impersonate Tom Waits. I just love his music."

I would say someone who understands and enjoys Waits’ music deserves appreciation. Or wait, you wanted to see a half-naked Johansson who shook her booty on shallow but catchy pop tunes…Too bad for those of you who had such hopes! Because the actress’ new album is nothing like that.

Okay, she is not an experienced musician, she does not have a voice that strikes you as spectacular, but the atmosphere in her songs is completely sweet and refreshing. I only wish her voice was a little less blurred and we could better hear that "Tinkerbell on cough syrup" effect, as producer Dave Sitek described it.

Scarlett’s deep and dizzying voice haunts the listener, and is perfect for covering the songs of such a special artist as Tom Waits, whose voice also cannot be digested from the first listening session.

Listening to Johansson’s album is like bathing in a lovely sadness that you do not want to escape.

“Anywhere I Lay My Head” includes tracks such as “I Don’t Want to Grow Up,” “Green Grass” and “Falling Down.”

David Bowie joined Johansson for two tracks on her album: "Fannin Street" and "Falling Down".