I wanted to like this record, I really did, but I don’t. After repeated listenings, I just can’t get into it. It’s too dark and brooding. Her vocal style reminds a little of Beth Gibbons, (but not really in a good way, she’s a bit more throaty too), and overall I find the songs either too dramatic or too bombastic. For Sufjan fans, this is a big departure from the easygoing folk sounds of Shara’s gig with the Illinoisemakers, so don’t say I didn’t warn you.