Daisy Chapman pinches at your heart strings with every breath and every storyline she starts in She Took Flight. The Anti-Folk and classical singer is experienced enough to give us a masterpiece of an album. It has everything from cascading orchestra sections to gushing vocals. She has composed and arranged 7 brilliant pieces that deserve an article of their own, speaking at length of how each single is a gem from the bedrocks of the deepest sea and deserves to be cherished and appreciated. 

Daisy Chapman under the Starlight

Starlight begins with a piano section that tumbles in, heralding Daisy’s entrance. She peppers the song with a little bit of everything as she enters. From the expert piano playing, layered with a Violin section where the player literally bends the tune to their will. As she performs all this, each and every element shines. It is not as though one takes the spotlight and one doesn’t. But rather, each and every element works in a significant manner. She hones in on her classical expertise and puts them on full display in Starlight. Much like the name, Daisy’s vocals shine through in the song.

Waterloo Sunsets

Each and everyone contribute to a magical performance encapsulated within each song. Despite that Waterloo Sunset is my favourite track from the album. The classical song has a very musical opening with the piano playing the entrance bar for Daisy. You can imagine an entire performance on stage. She sings about Terry and Julie who are lovers who meet on the Waterloo bridge. The way she has you clutching at your heart as she sings of this couple is a testament to her brilliant storytelling ability. And the way the song is stitched together is a showcase of incredible production quality. 

Ballad of a Distracted Mother

Unlike her other songs, Daisy starts off Ballad of a Distracted Mother with just her voice, accompanied by just the Piano. The song honestly matches the vibe of a tired mother. She plays with classical and blues in this song that. It blooms and flourishes as her voice booms into existence. She immediately goes back into the blues section again creating an interesting texture all within one song. The album’s classical quality makes a perfect album to be turned into a musical of its own. Much like what Anaïs Mitchell did but the album does not meet the vibes of Hadestown. If there ever is a mash-up between Rent and Waitress, this would be it. Daisy Chapman has the outside-looking-in perspective of Roger from Rent while her songs also feels as though they could be sung by Jenna from Waitress. 

Needless to say, Daisy Chapman is a magician and a mastermind of the current Anti-Folk and Classical scene. She knows how to pick her orchestra as they have added so much character and injected an abundance of life along with Daisy’s wonderful vocals. You must give this album a chance, especially if you’re a classical music lover or just a musical fan. You can follow her on her socials linked below.