La cofondatrice de Daughter déploie ses mélodies trip-hop vaporeuses en solo

Elena Tonra, known primarily as the voice and cofounder of the indie band Daughter, has stepped back into the solo spotlight with the release of her sophomore album under the moniker Ex:Re. Titled "Save As," this collection marks a significant return after an eight-year hiatus since her first solo project.

The album unfolds with the track "Radio Station," where Tonra’s contemplative vocals weave through subtle acoustic guitar lines, setting a tone of intimate reflection. This opening piece metaphorically captures a search for connection, mirroring the artist’s own meticulous approach to crafting the album.

Tonra collaborated closely with producer Fabian Prynn, whose background includes work with artists like D. D. Dumbo and Dry Cleaning. Together, they sculpted a soundscape that balances polished production with moments of rawness, allowing the music to breathe and resonate authentically.

Supporting Tonra’s vision is a carefully assembled ensemble of musicians, including cellist Josephine Stephenson and bassist Ben Reed. Their contributions enrich the album’s texture, underpinning the ethereal quality that permeates the tracks.

One of the standout features of "Save As" is its fusion of genres, notably the integration of trip-hop elements. Songs like "Sleep," recorded in a Paris hotel room, juxtapose moody beats with a rhythmic drive that surprisingly invites movement even in the subdued pre-dawn atmosphere.

Throughout the album, Tonra’s songwriting explores themes of vulnerability and existential introspection. Comparisons have been drawn to Lana Del Rey’s atmospheric style, particularly on tracks such as "Frozen Aisle," where lush, floating synth layers create a dreamlike aura. Other songs, like "Language of Love," carry an uplifting lightness, while "Am I Even Real?" ventures into post-rock territory with its expansive, drifting arrangements.

The title track, "Save As," exemplifies Tonra’s English melodic sensibility, merging acoustic folk elements with contemporary dream pop influences to craft a sound that is both familiar and transcendent. The album’s final song, "Healing (Slow)," confronts themes of loss and recovery, with Tonra’s voice resonating in a way that connects deeply with listeners’ personal experiences.

Set for release on October 30, 2026, under the 4AD and Wagram labels, "Save As" represents a thoughtful evolution in Tonra’s musical journey. While details about the album’s broader context and reception are still emerging, the project reaffirms her ability to blend introspective lyricism with innovative soundscapes. This marks a compelling continuation of Tonra’s artistic exploration beyond the boundaries of Daughter’s established sound, offering a fresh perspective on her solo identity.