All Things Will Unwind

iTunes Review

Shara Worden, the multi-instrumentalist also known as My Brightest Diamond, explores chamber pop in a way that ensures a wild ride. Having spent time as a touring member of Sufjan Stevens’ band and possessing a bachelor’s degree in classical vocal performance from the University of North Texas, Worden isn’t afraid to put the art into “art song.” Collaborating with the yMusic chamber ensemble, Worden has the arrangements that beautifully support her studied voice. Woodwinds, horns, and strings create instrumental beds that keep the music constantly swirling around her. There’s a sense of Judy Collins’ work with Joshua Rifkin in the elegance of “Escape Routes,” “I Have Never Loved Someone,” and “In the Beginning.” Standard instrumentations such as drums and bass occasionally flash onto the scene during “Reaching Through to the Other Side” and “High Low Middle.” However, Worden’s just as likely to soar with the weightless glide of “She Does Not Brave the War” and the avant-garde pulse of “Ding Dang.” It’s an album of great imagination and daring.