Stacie Fry
I absolutely love to watch my favorite bands play live; to become submerged and entranced by the artists’ passion transformed into sound. The problem is some of my favorite bands do not always travel to my hometown of Jacksonville. Venturing off for an evening to explore other cities in Florida, with the main intention to see an artist perform for one night is a wonderful experience due to our state’s diverse locations and close proximity.
Just a quick road trip away from Jacksonville, The Beacham in Orlando is a perfectly intimate venue in Florida to experience a wide variety of music. Located at 46 North Orange Avenue in the heart downtown Orlando, The Beacham is historic 1920s vaudeville and cinema theater that has been renovated into a concert hall, with plenty of floor space and open staircases on either side, providing extra viewing space and access to the balcony. The Beacham has a rich history with many famous bands performing throughout the years, but tonight I am here for Daughter, an indie folk band from England signed to Glassnote and 4AD.
Performing for an almost sold-out crowd, this is Daughter’s first time playing in Orlando, and their show at The Beacham is the only appearance in Florida, on their North American tour. Joining Daughter on tour as opening act is Vancouver Sleep Clinic, an upcoming band from Australia with a soulful atmospheric sound that perfectly sets the mood for the main act.
With two full length albums and a handful of singles and EP’s, Daughter emerges onto the stage, ready to deliver their songs about painful situations that revolve around love and life. The Beacham is packed with fans eager to listen to the trio’s melancholy signature sound that many fans have needed and waited for; a powerful yet graceful and melodic release of emotions that resonates on many levels. Several people yell, “We love you,” and lead singer, Elena blushes as she calmly walks up to the mic. Her demeanor seems delicate, yet her voice is compelling and intense. Daughter confidently puts their emotions on display with lyrics that are personal, driven by echoing beats and haunting guitars. The Beacham’s architectural acoustics allow their sound to reverberate throughout the room, filling every space and vantage point.
Daughter played for an hour and a half, performing practically every song off their latest album, Not to Disappear, more than half of their first album If You Leave, and the widely popular song, “Love,” from The Wild Youth EP. The trio’s tight performance captivated their fans. The band was appreciative and surprised at the large turnout, and indicated how unexpected and wonderful it was to see so many people in the audience. As a fan, I was happy to be a part of that surprise and their performance was well worth the two hour drive to The Beacham.
Florida has a diverse collection of cities, large and small, with varying locations for performing artists. Many of these cities are only a short road trip away from Jacksonville. Whether going with a group of friends, family, or going solo, I would encourage anyone to hit the road to see a favored artist and to create lasting memories.
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