The War and Treaty, the husband-and-wife duo of Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter, have captivated audiences with their soulful blend of gospel, country, and rock and roll. Their raw energy and undeniable vocal prowess have earned them a devoted following and critical acclaim, including Grammy nominations for Best New Artist and Best American Roots Song ("Blank Page" from their 2023 album Lover's Game). Their fifth project, the studio album Plus One, delivers a powerful record of the enduring power of love with hope.
Michael and Tanya's musical partnership began in 2014, but their individual stories are deeply intertwined with their artistic expression. Michael, a U.S. Army veteran who served in Iraq, discovered his musical talents while stationed overseas, finding solace and purpose in writing songs to honor fallen soldiers and honing his skills on a piano found in one of Saddam Hussein's former palaces. Michael recalls, "I wrote my first song after that captain was killed. I sang it for his memorial in Iraq". Tanya, with a background steeped in gospel and soul, brought her own powerful voice and stage presence to the duo. Together, they forged a sound that transcends genre, drawing on their diverse influences to create something truly unique.
Their debut EP, Down to the River (2017), introduced the world to their captivating blend of blues, gospel, and soul, described as "a splendidly made immediate classic about conflict and redemption". Healing Tide (2018) followed, solidifying their place in the Americana music scene. Hearts Town (2020), further expanded their sonic palette, incorporating elements of country and folk, and included collaborations with artists like Emmylou Harris. Their major label debut, Lover's Game (2023), saw them working with renowned producer Dave Cobb, resulting in a more polished sound. Each album has marked a step forward in their artistic evolution, showcasing their growth as songwriters and performers. Along the way, they have shared stages with a diverse group of artists, including Al Green, Brandi Carlile, Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, John Legend, Lauren Daigle, Van Morrison, Zach Bryan, and The Rolling Stones.
With this rich history and artistic evolution, The War and Treaty now present Plus One, an album that marks a new chapter in their journey. Driven by a desire to leave a legacy for their children and inspire others, they pour their hearts and souls into this collection of songs.
Plus One is a celebration of the transformative power of love and a reflection of the different styles of Michael and Tanya's relationship. Tanya explains that the record reflects the multifaceted nature of their love, encompassing the sacredness of gospel, the passion of R&B, the urgency of soul, the storytelling of country, the improvisation of jazz, and the heartbreak of the blues. "It's all us," she concludes. Recorded at the legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, the double album features 18 tracks that explore the complexities and triumphs of human connection, hope, and healing. The legendary FAME Studios, known for its contributions to classic soul music, provides a rich backdrop for the duo's powerful vocals and diverse musical arrangements.
Michael Trotter Jr. describes the album as "an open invitation" to share in their journey and a source of hope, both for the audience and for themselves. This sense of hope permeates the album, offering a balm for a world often filled with uncertainty and division.
The album opens with "Love Like Whiskey," a powerful anthem co-written with Miranda Lambert, and "Can I Get an Amen," which showcases the Trotters' gospel roots. "Love Like Whiskey," with its driving rhythm and soaring vocals, perfectly captures the fiery nature of love, while "Can I Get An Amen" offers a soulful celebration of putting your partner first. "Called You by Your Name," with its infectious energy and New Orleans-style horns, is a joyous ode to love and life. "Save Me," (see the video below) released as a single prior to the album, is a stirring love ballad that showcases the duo's vocal prowess and the depth of their emotional connection. Over a gentle guitar and piano melody, Michael and Tanya's voices intertwine, creating a tapestry of hope and redemption.
While the album is primarily focused on love's triumphs, it also delves into its vulnerabilities. "Teardrops in the Rain" is a ballad that reflects on the pain of disappointed love. "Leads Me Home," with its delicate piano and pedal steel, evokes a sense of longing and the search for solace.
Throughout Plus One, The War and Treaty seamlessly blend genres, incorporating elements of bluegrass, country, soul, and even symphonic pop. "Carried Away," a fiery blend of honky-tonk and soul, showcases their ability to ignite a dance floor. "Drink From Me," featuring the virtuosic guitar playing of Billy Strings, is a rollicking bluegrass romp. "Love Light," a tender ballad, highlights the ethereal beauty of Tanya's vocals.
The collaborative nature of the songwriting on Plus One is also noteworthy. Michael and Tanya co-wrote most of the songs with 15 other writers, bringing a diverse range of perspectives and experiences to the album. This collaborative spirit is further enhanced by the influence of Nashville's vibrant music culture, which informs the duo's creative process.
Plus One expands upon themes established in the War and Treaty's earlier work. Both Hearts Town and Plus One delve into the complexities of love, loss, and the search for meaning. "Hearts Town," with its raw vulnerability, laid the groundwork for the expansive and hopeful vision presented in Plus One. Songs like "Five More Minutes" from Hearts Town and "Save Me" from Plus One showcase the duo's ability to tap into deep emotions and create music that resonates with listeners profoundly. Furthermore, Plus One expands upon the themes of love and hope first explored in their debut album, Healing Tide. While Healing Tide focused on personal healing, Plus One extends that vision outward, embracing a broader message of love, unity, and the power of human connection.
While the album is very strong, some listeners might argue that its 18-track length could lead to fatigue, particularly given the wide range of styles. The transition from a high-energy track like "Called You by Your Name" to a more introspective ballad like "Teardrops in the Rain" might feel abrupt to some. However, this variety also reflects the multifaceted nature of love itself, and the Trotters' ability to embody its many forms.
The album's impact is further amplified by its personal resonance, their evolution from intimate coffee house performances to captivating stadium shows. Plus One feels like a culmination of their journey, a marker of their unwavering commitment to their craft and their message of love. The album's themes of hope and healing resonate deeply in a world often filled with division and despair. Their music serves as a reminder of the power of human connection and the importance of finding joy in the midst of life's challenges.
The War and Treaty have once again proven that they are a force to be reckoned with. Plus One is not just an album; it's an experience, an invitation to embrace love in all its forms and find strength in the face of adversity.