The reconstructed technique of No Daylight by Fiona Amaka has become a masterpiece of artistic development. This reworking demonstrates how considered production could bring even already strong songwriting to a higher level, as Andy Zanini plays the guitar and Stefan Antoinette mixes the song, establishing a sound scenery that is both refined and simultaneously natural.
The song instantly attracts through its 80s rock sound, thrown back by crashing guitars and heavy bass line that form a splendid backing to the vocal performance of Amaka. Her voice flows with confident ease between reserved delicateness and desperate force that have formed her hallmark. This dynamicism holds the audience in suspense, not knowing where her strong delivery will bring them the next moment.
The most interesting fact about No Daylight is its capacity to project the nostalgic post-punk aesthetics but keep the clearly present British rock sensibility of the time. The heavier, crisper production values shine through without losing the needed rawness of the song. All the aspects are intentional - the stratified instrumentation to the air production that adds to, but does not overwhelm the narration skills of Amaka.
This interpretation of No Daylight proves the incredibly adaptable nature of Amaka as an artist who is ready to perfect her work according to the feedback and retain her artistic vision at the same time. It has struck a chord with all ages, and presents the 'tell it like it is' emotional material that has seen her become such an irresistible force in the world of British music nowadays.
No Daylight makes clear the fact that Fiona Amaka has been an artist who has not feared to go to darker emotional areas and deliver music that resonates on a deeply human level. It is exciting, real and all-consuming.
