I recently had the pleasure of experiencing Sydney’s Sherlock’s Daughter live for the first time, in support of Lisa Mitchell (read the review here), so was no doubt thrilled when I recently received their debut self-titled EP.
But that said, I did approach the EP with a fair amount of trepidation – who was to say if their on stage flair would translate on record? I note quite a few Sydney bands who end up appearing boring on record, when live they’re some of the best acts that the city has to offer! Thankfully, the trepidation was unnecessary – the live music of the Sydney 5 piece translates remarkably well on the album, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.
Produced by Jono Ma of Lost Valentinos, The EP launches with the epic, beautiful, “Sons & Daughters”, which both lyrically and instrumentally shows just how much potential the young band has. Opening with Tanya Horo beautifully singing the lyrics “God came around, said he had a bone to chew…” you’re immediately hooked. As beautiful as the music is on its own, they’re telling us a story as well.
“Song for Old People” is the catchiest on the EP, with the sensational “when once you were younger… I know, I know it’s life” reprise carrying them through. This song translated particularly well live. “Reprise”, meanwhile, shows a different hand of cards, bringing to the table instrumental splendour, while smelling a little bit like Boards of Canada.
“Kids” is next, and while my least favourite track on the album, believe me when I say that this doesn’t mean much. The aptly named “In the End” finishes off the EP, focusing on Tanya’s hauntingly powerful vocals. It really is the perfect bed time song, with a good dose of xylophone rocking us into our dreams.
The main difference to the album and their live show, is that in the former, the drums are stripped back – where live they take much more precedence. But they make up for this by emphasizing some of the more tender, quiet moments – at times rendering the listener frozen, speechless, covered in lovely goosebumps, especially in the album closer.
See them live, listen to this album – support this band!
I officially love Sherlock’s Daughter and can’t wait to see what comes next.
Review Score: 8.5/10
