Daughter’s second album is a big step forward for them, both musically and lyrically. There are a number of clues to its New York recording venue, for this is a moodily cast but achingly cool piece of work. However it manages the ‘achingly cool’ bit without trying too hard, as there are some really profound songs here to go with the shoegaze / electronica mix that works so well as backing. ‘Doing The Right Thing’ is a deeply emotional song about dementia that leaves a lasting imprint, while by contrast ‘Numbers’ and ‘Mothers’ leave powerful impressions through their rhythmic thrust. At times ‘Not To Disappear’ does paint a bleak picture – ‘I should be feeling more’, says ‘Made Of Stone’ – while ‘Alone / With You’ takes a forthright approach to what feels like an impending break-up. But ultimately ‘Not To Disappear’ is a positive piece of work, Elena Tonra’s vocals the perfect match for the ambitious musical backdrop, moving from delicate electronica to no holds barred, crowd pleasing pop. An album sure to do well.
