Distinguishing characteristics of the band include frontman Daniel Smith's squeaky falsetto and sometimes nasally vocals. The band also incorporates visuals into some of its performance such as matching costumes and encouraging audience participation of clap-alongs, hand gestures and dance moves. Some appearances have seen Daniel playing a guitar while inside a costume of a ten foot tree bearing nine fruits of the Holy Spirit.[1]
Members of Danielson Famile portray a proud DIY attitude within many aspects of their work. All of Danielson's album artwork is done by Daniel himself, with the exception of the construction paper inserts of the two Tri-Danielson albums which were done by Chris. The animation in their music videos for the songs Headz in the Cloudz and Rubbernecker feature stop motion animation done by Chris. The band members' uniforms begin as Daniel's vision and then are designed by Megan. Although all the girls participate in the sewing, the driving force behind the construction is Marian, their mother.
Hosanna In The Forest
Danielson Lyrics
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The opening refrain of Danielson's song "Hosanna In The Forest", "Hosanna, save now!", identifies the central theme of the song -- a call for salvation or deliverance. Throughout the song, the lyrics draw on references to nature and the forest as a setting that is both beautiful and dangerous. The singer describes himself (or herself) as "an animal," suggesting a sense of vulnerability and helplessness in the face of this wilderness. However, the repeated cry of "Hosanna" implies a faith that salvation is possible, that help is at hand.
As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the singer's faith is not directed towards a specific religious figure or doctrine. Instead, the lyrics emphasize a sense of wonder and gratitude for the natural world: "Oh, how the colors they revolve / And how they bloom, how they sing". The chorus repeats the word "Hosanna" as a kind of mantra, suggesting that this sense of wonder and gratitude is a form of salvation in itself. The final lines of the song, "From one particle to another / The animal will thrive", seem to suggest a faith in the interconnectedness of all things, and a belief that even in the midst of danger and uncertainty, life will endure.
Line by Line Meaning
Hosanna, save now!
We cry out for help and salvation!
Contributed by Stella T. Suggest a correction in the comments below.