The First Album "Daughters" Delves Into Sorrow and Style

In this track "Miss America", listeners find themselves in a lodging close to JFK airport, as Jennifer Walton learns the devastating update of her father's illness discovery. This Sunderland-born artist was traveling America on her initial visit, drumming with group Kero Kero Bonito, and abruptly grief takes over, tinging everything with melancholy. Faltering piano and hushed orchestration underscore gothic reports emanating from the road: "Cattle farm and broke down shack / Shopping centers, illicit trades, anxious moments."

Her soft singing are delivered with a flat style, yet the album's intensity stems from her keen writing—mixing stories, folksy sayings, and blunt diary entries—coupled with surprising rich textures. Few tracks recently showcase stronger storytelling style than "Shelly", a piece that depicts the death of a deer and spirals toward a fuel-soaked confrontation, reminiscent of literary works lit with glimpses of distorted cello. Tense, subdued sections featuring resonating, strummed guitar transition to grand choruses, with Walton's voice digitally manipulated into something omniscient and menacing.

Audiences may already know the artist from her work as an electronic producer, disc jockey, and member in groups like Caroline. The album's musical twists reflect her varied career. The opener "Sometimes" bursts with fanfare, as if an ensemble taken by surprise, whereas "Born Again Backwards" drastically increases the tempo with a punishing, beautiful, looping drum fill. Dense walls of sound, skillfully produced by a long-term collaborator, feel at once gnarly and ethereal, and Walton's dark, enchanted thoughts peak on standout "Lambs", which momentarily transforms into a swirling dance. "I hope your existence doesn't conclude with dying," Walton bargains, exuding poignant gallows humor.

Vickie Rivas
Vickie Rivas

Environmental scientist and writer passionate about sustainable development and renewable energy solutions.