A direct theme runs through the veins of Taylor Daukas’ latest EP, “Long Gone”: the experimental, hypnotic sound served up vulnerable and bare. Indulging in Taylor’s delicately harmonious voice with the soft swelling of percussion and horns on False Door, the last song of the EP, one might find an invitation into a world of truth and purpose. There is a deeply compelling element to Taylor’s songs, one which we can only assume is a willingness to let the music be just what it is: beautifully and brutally honest.  

This self-acceptance weaved into Taylor’s album is a newfound treasure. Taylor entered the music scene in a customary way, which in many respects seemed to be serving her well. Possessing all the drive of someone who believed in the music she created and an unknowing, naïve devotion to the melodic range she thought to be the pinnacle of her musical ability—Taylor was ready to give everything she could. But like a serendipitous slap in the face, Taylor was T-boned in a life-threatening car accident on the night of her first single release, resulting in a jaw injury that made it physically excruciating to speak or eat, let alone sing. Life was at a halt, and a music career seemed like a hopeless venture.  

After nearly 2 years of waiting and healing, Taylor began making music again. This time she was able to create something with melodic precision and an honest voice that lends itself to her newfound responsibility to authenticity. “I know for many people when there’s a tragedy, there’s often not just a silver lining, but a purpose you might find from what occurred. This felt like a step beyond that, like I was being shaken awake from the music I was creating—really from the person I was. The injury was so specific in taking away my ability to sing, and in the end I’m thankful it did.”

Taylor’s latest album, “Long Gone”, is a revelation you can feel, even not having known her previous work—a result of meeting friends Micah and Janie Dailey who were able to help her record, produce, and express without limit. A car accident, and many happy accidents later, Taylor made an album in the rawest way one can: in the living room of two people who gave her the ultimate freedom to be herself and create something that was exactly what she wanted to be.