Dive and Fly

On Dive & Fly, folk-rock songstress Jennifer Daniels exudes a persona that is equally gutsy and sensitive, penning confessional tales and attaching them to memorable melodies and rich arrangements. Like Tori Amos, Ani DiFranco, Delores O'Riordan, and Joni Mitchell, the essence of Daniels' artistry is found in her narratives. Her romantic ponderings are delivered with urgency as she often breaks into a cracking falsetto or strong vibrato to drive her point home with confidence. Whether she's rocking out on the alternative country-tinged "Daylight Running" or flying solo acoustic with "Babylon" or baring her soul a cappella on the hidden track "Oh Danny Boy," Daniels' striking lyrical imagery displays an eloquent sense of language. The ensemble playing on this collection is also noteworthy. The hybrid of acoustic and orchestral textures is tastefully embellished with subtle tape loops and electric guitar feedback, which serve the song every time out. Dive & Fly champions the elementary emotional characteristics of singer/songwriter folk-rock and pushes the genre forward with a sound that is contemporary and commercially accessible.