2006, Asthmatic Kitty Records
My Brightest Diamond, consisting primarily of the stellar-voiced Shara Worden, as well as a smattering of additional instrumentalists, debuts with Bring Me the Workhorse, an album that portrays a rare musical depth. Perhaps it's Worden's operatic training that sets My Brightest Diamond apart from the proverbial pack -- but it feels like something more.
Bring Me the Workhorse is an emotional whirlwind; this effect is aided, of course, by Shara Worden's dynamic voice, but also her soulful guitar playing and the additional instrumentation that's spread liberally throughout the record. The string arrangements, also by Worden (though played by three others,) make numerous appearances; tracks like "Disappear" and "Magic Rabbit" make it readily apparent that Shara Worden is not only a skilled vocalist, but a skilled songwriter as well.
It's remarkable that Bring Me the Workhorse is, in fact, My Brightest Diamond's first release. There's a certain maturity and experience channeled through the music. Hauntingly beautiful, this is easily one of the most notable releases of 2006; Worden's voice lingers with strains of strings, floating through the air long after the closing notes of "Workhorse."