My Brightest Diamond’s latest release A Thousand Shark’s Teeth is simply stunning. There is no way around the beauty of this record both musically and lyrically. Classically trained vocalist, Shara Worden, spearheads this outfit with multiple layers of strings, beautifully placed percussion, and the eerie reminiscing vocal stylings. The first thoughts of Worden’s vocals will take you to comparing it to Blonde Redhead or the rememberable soundtrack of 1998 film Great Expectations. You may also recognize her vocals from the new classic, Illinoise, from Indie weirdfolk musician Sufjan Stevens.

The record is absolutely breathtaking. It’s a dramatic tale pushing and pulling you through the waves of it’s grabbing lyrics and original music. I have been disappointed lately by many records feeling unoriginal and borrowing heavily from the Beach Boys or indie pop bands. My Brightest Diamond seems so fresh and original. Her voice is strong and captivating. The music brings you on a journey that lasts throughout the record. Doing a little bit of homework I have found that she creates her music by visually picturing the formation of the sounds, like their is a visual moving picture of how and what she will create. She wants to instill beauty and wonder and I think that is a task upon itself and I believe it was accomplished in this record. Her bio has said she was “Influenced by artists such as Tricky, French composer Maurice Ravel and Tom Waits, in addition to the star exploration themes of Anslem Kiefer’s paintings, the imaginary landscapes of photographer Robert ParkeHarrison, films by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, and Alice in Wonderland.”

The record can be streamed at the Asthmatic Kitty website or her myspace page.

The record is a strong record, beautiful, layered, and all around hopeful. It’s dramatic and daring with a soft kisses touch. Worden’s vocals are some of the best out their for your listening pleasure. A sure talent that needs to be listened to.