Julien Baker and Torres Embrace Country Roots on Genre-Bending Album "Send A Prayer My Way"
Indie music icons Julien Baker and Torres are trading their usual haunts for a down-home stage, delivering a soulful and unexpected country-infused album titled "Send A Prayer My Way", set for release on April 18th via Matador Records. The duo, both hailing from the South – Baker from Tennessee and Torres from Georgia – have long admired country music, but this project marks their first foray into the genre as collaborators.
Their path to country music has been a gradual one, beginning with a shared love for the genre woven into their indie sound. Whispers of a collaboration began in 2016 after a memorable Chicago show, building into a palpable anticipation that fans have been eagerly awaiting for years. Early snippets in live performances and select single releases only intensified the excitement, promising a record filled with heartfelt narratives and genre-bending twists.
The journey toward "Send A Prayer My Way" reached a crescendo last October when Torres joined Baker onstage in New York, debuting two new songs to a rapturous response. This momentum continued through December with their captivating single "Sugar In The Tank" gracing the stage of "The Tonight Show," showcasing the duo’s effortless harmonies and lyrical prowess. A surprise set at New York’s Mercury Lounge further fueled the hype, revealing additional tracks from the album alongside passionate nods to their influences with covers of Songs: Ohia’s "Farewell Transmission" and Tim McGraw’s "Something Like That."
Along with the album announcement, Baker and Torres shared "Sylvia," a poignant tribute inspired by Torres’ beloved dog. The lyrics, echoing a classic wandering-lover tale, delve into the depths of unconditional love and the profound bond between humans and their pets.
The music video, shot primarily at their Mercury Lounge show, features a cameo from fellow musician Lucy Dacus, adding a layer of heartwarming camaraderie. Accompanied by the raw emotion of their music, "Sylvia" establishes "Send A Prayer My Way" as more than just an album; it’s a journey into the heart of human connection.
Produced by Sarah Tudzin of Illuminati Hotties, "Send A Prayer My Way" expertly blends Baker and Torres’ indie sensibilities with classic country elements. The result is a richly textured sonic landscape encompassing introspection, storytelling, and raw emotional vulnerability across twelve tracks.
The album tracklist is as follows:
- "dirt"
- "The Only Marble I’ve Got Left"
- "Sugar In The Tank"
- "Bottom Of A Bottle"
- "Downhill Both Ways"
- "No Desert Flower"
- "Tape Runs Out"
- "Off The Wagon"
- "Tuesday"
- "Showdown"
- "Sylvia"
- "Goodbye Baby"
Baker and Torres’ collaboration transcends a mere genre experiment; it’s a love letter to their Southern upbringing and shared musical heritage. By weaving together their indie backgrounds with the warmth and depth of country music, they are creating a sound that feels both familiar and fresh. As fans impatiently await the release of "Send A Prayer My Way", the album stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring ability of music to connect us on a deeply personal level.