The Staves are a folk rock band from Watford, England, consisting of three two sisters: Camilla and Jessica Staveley-Taylor. They are known for their beautiful harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and acoustic sound. Third sister Emily has taken time out from the band to raise a young family.
The Staves started singing together at a young age, encouraged by their musical family. They began performing at open mic nights in their hometown, originally under the name The Staveley-Taylors. They later shortened it to The Staves, as a tribute to their surname and their love of music.
The band gained exposure by supporting various artists, such as Tom Jones, Mt. Desolation, Fionn Regan, The Civil Wars, and Bon Iver. They also travelled to Nashville, Tennessee, to work with some of the best songwriters and producers in the country genre. They signed with Warner Bros. Records in 2016 and released their debut album, Dead & Born & Grown, which was produced by Glyn Johns and Ethan Johns. The album received critical acclaim and showcased the band's distinctive blend of folk, rock, and pop influences.
The Staves followed up their debut with their second album, If I Was, in 2015. The album was produced by Justin Vernon of Bon Iver, who invited the band to record at his studio in Wisconsin. The album featured a more expansive and experimental sound, with elements of electronic music, orchestral arrangements, and gospel influences. The album also reflected the band's personal struggles and emotions, as they dealt with the pressures of fame, relationships, and identity. The album reached number 14 on the UK Albums Chart and number one on the UK Country Albums Chart.
In 2017, The Staves collaborated with yMusic, a New York-based chamber ensemble, to create a full-length album called The Way is Read. The album was a departure from their previous work, as it featured no guitars or drums, but only vocals and classical instruments. The album was an artistic challenge for the band, as they explored new ways of composing and arranging songs. The album was praised for its innovative and adventurous approach to music-making.
The band's latest album is Good Woman, which was released in 2021. The album was written and recorded after the band suffered a series of losses and changes in their lives, including the death of their mother and grandmother, and Camilla's breakup with her boyfriend. The album is a testament to the band's resilience and strength, as they confront their grief and anger with honesty and courage. The album also features a more confident and assertive sound, with electric guitars, synths, and drums adding more energy and edge to their songs. The album has been hailed as their best work yet by critics and fans alike.
Now in 2024, a new album has been announced, All Now. All Now will be The Staves' first release on Communion, after they parted ways with the bigger, multinational Atlantic Records in 2022.
The Staves are one of the most talented and inspiring bands in the UK music scene today. They have won over audiences around the world with their stunning vocals, captivating songs, and charming personalities. They have also earned the respect and admiration of many fellow musicians, such as Mumford & Sons, First Aid Kit, Florence + The Machine, and Of Monsters And Men. They continue to explore new musical horizons and express themselves with passion and authenticity.
