The Haden Triplets are just that, the triplet daughters of jazz bassist
Charlie Haden.
Petra,
Rachel, and
Tanya Haden followed their father into music, but rather than devoting themselves to jazz, they became a family harmony ensemble, bringing their expert and emotionally compelling vocal arrangements to vintage folk and country songs. The trio debuted their striking vocal stylings with spare but artful accompaniment on their self-titled 2014 album, while 2020's
The Family Songbook boasted slightly more full-bodied production.
Born October 11, 1971,
Tanya,
Rachel, and
Petra Haden have had separate and collective musical careers (brother
Josh Haden is also a musician, the leader of the band
Spain).
Tanya, a singer and cellist has been a member of several bands, including
Let's Go Sailing and
Silversun Pickups, and was the creator of the Imaginary Bear puppet show.
Rachel, a singer, bassist, and drummer, has been a member of
that dog. (along with her sister
Petra) and
the Rentals.
Petra, who sings and plays violin, has been in several bands, including
that dog.,
Tito & Tarantula, and
the Decemberists, and has released a handful of solo albums, including 2005's
Petra Haden Sings: The Who Sell Out, an a cappella and home-recorded rendition of the
Who album. Together, the sisters have the kind of striking vocal harmony blend that can only come with a familial background.
The trio's debut album together, the self-titled
The Haden Triplets, appeared in 2013. Produced by iconic guitarist
Ry Cooder and featuring mandolin work from
Ricky Skaggs, the album won enthusiastic reviews, but the Hadens' various projects meant fans would have to wait for a follow-up. Their patience was rewarded in early 2020 with the release of
The Family Songbook, which along with new interpretations of folk and country classics (and
Kanye West's "Say You Will") featured several rare compositions from their grandfather, songwriter Carl E. Haden. ~ Steve Leggett & Mark Deming