Emma Worley – “Jigsaw”

SXSW 2023 - OEB Score 7: Popularity Index: 1
Pairs Well With … Christine Kane, Jonathan Brooke, Patty Larkin

Melancholy dream folk pretty well describes the songs on Emma Worley’s first album, aptly named, Sentimentalist. But the best songs here are also warm-hearted and lyrical, with superb chamber pop instrumentation including pedal steel, cello, viola and violin, and clarinet which rounds out the sound. Worley’s song beautifully capture nostalgia for lost friendships, hometowns, and other losses. “Jigsaw” is the standout, with a hint of alt country and a lot of metaphors above, beyond, and distinct from the puzzle reference in the title. The lyrics are also memorable and heart-felt: “how’d you let a goldfish die, how’d you let a decade go by?” Other strong efforts include “Homesick” and “Gemini.” The rest of the album is more of a mixed bag. But, she’s a strong writer and I imagine that with experience (and a touch of restraint) Worley’s catalogue will stand out for its poetic poignancy. Lastly, while her voice is gentle, she avoids whispery and whiney that can plague some iterations of this genre.  OEB doesn’t know if Worley will play solo or is bringing her band. I hope the later because the Sentimentalist is really a polished work. Some of this maturity is likely because music is Worley’s second career. She spent many years dedicated to the visual arts including sculptures and installations. Thus, rather than rely just on emotion and voice, Worley pays attention to the details of storytelling and emotional finesse. (David Zlotnick)