New York-based indie pop band Clare & The Reasons (Clare Muldaur, Olivier Manchon and Bob Hart, mainly) should not be dismissed as yet another frivolous romp through the format field of other artists in the genre. Clare & The Reasons combine their talents to create their meticulously composed sophomore album, Arrow. 

Featuring My Brightest Diamond’s Shara Worden (on “This is the Story”) and a cover of Genesis’ “That’s All,” this album is sure to span a unique range of musicality. Most of the songs feature a lovely string orchestra of violins, violas and cello, often backed by heavy bass drums and Muldaur’s whimsical, almost childlike vocalizations. In addition to this diverse span of instruments, expect to hear some French horn, synths and lighthearted kazoo in the mix. 

Tracks such as “All the Wine” and “Ooh You Hurt Me So,” truly exemplify Muldaur’s hauntingly simplistic vocals, while still revealing the painstakingly precise compositional steps made to present this work of true artistry that spans multiple genres. 

Megan Mitchell is the assistant alternative music director at KUPS 90.1FM in Tacoma.