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Londoner Elena Tonra’s interest in and inspiration for music stemmed from listening to traditional Irish music with her grandfather and receiving Jeff Buckley’s “Grace” during her time in school. Initially an outlet for her emotion perils during her childhood years, in adulthood, Tonra’s music represents those topics she finds difficult to discuss. Having initially played under her own name, the singer found performing individually difficult and restrictive, and elected to enlist the the services of Swiss-born guitarist Igor Haefeli.
Following a number of well-received performances and the release of their debut EP “His Young Heart”, Daughter generated a substantial amount of buzz and online exposure. The band’s critically acclaimed second EP “The Wild Youth” was released on Communion Records in October 2011 and highlighted Daughter’s powerfully candid songwriting style and minimalist accompaniment. The four-track EP led to a series of high-profile performances including a 700-capacity show in London, after which Daughter signed with revered independent label 4AD.
Ahead of their debut album, Daughter released the single “Smother”, which earned significant airplay on BBC Radio 1 and BBC 6Music. In promotion of their debut full-length, the band appeared on the David Letterman Show in December 2012, in aid of generating an American audience. Daughter’s first studio album “If You Leave”, appeared in March 2013 charting at No. 16 on the UK Albums Chart, and earning raving reviews from the musical press. “If You Leave” later won the Independent Album of the Year at the 2013 AIM Independent Music Awards, for its wearing of its heart on its sleeve and tugging at the listener’s heartstrings.
In support of the album, the band enlisted the help of multi-instrumentalist Luke Saunders and embarked on an extensive world tour. Including dates in the Far East and Australasia, the band supported The National for a number of their North American shows. Following the tour Daughter returned to the studio, this time with composer Joe Duddell, and released the EP “4AD Sessions” recorded at Portmeirion with an eight-piece ensemble.
I have always loved Daughter for their simplicity and beautiful innocence, the hard hitting lyrics have always captured me, along with their heavy bass notes and mysteriously beautiful guitar riffs. I had very high expectations for their show and knew that Elena (lead singer) wouldn't fault with her delicate vocals. I assumed they would be singing the majority of their debut album (If you leave) however they performed two very old songs, which both happen to be my favourite. This utterly smacked me in the face, I was not expecting to hear either 'Landfill' nor 'Candles' - Elena stated very innocently that they were recorded in Igor (Guitarists) bedroom for their first EP's. Daughter performed both songs flawlessly, the vocals were even better than the original.
The highlight for me was when they played their single 'Youth'. This is their most well known song, they had the audience singing passionatly to the lyrics. The added extra was that they had invited an orchestra to perform with them. The heavy bass notes in Youth were phenominally bought out. With a collection of violins, bass guitars, electric guitars, piano, synthesisers, drums and other percussion instruments. The whole energy and pure emotion on stage blew everyone away.
The over all set list was perfectly crafted, however did had to miss out a couple of songs due to timings, but I'm certainly not complaing. Being at Somerset House, it was open air, I personally thought that was the perfect touch. Daughter were so endearing, though very shy, they managed to win the hearts of everyone in the audience, with endless 'Thank yous' and sweet gestures to the audience. Daughter completely exceeded my expectations and not a penny was wasted. Incredibly beautiful.
alicegrace
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