Podcast Summary: All Of It – The War and Treaty’s New Album 'Plus One' (Live from CR5)
Introduction
In this engaging episode of ALL OF IT hosted by Alison Stewart, listeners are treated to an in-depth conversation with the Grammy-nominated and American Music Award-winning duo, The War and Treaty. Released on February 20, 2025, this episode delves into their latest album, "Plus One," live from CR5 studio. The War and Treaty, comprising the married couple Tanya and Michael Trotter, share insights into their creative process, the significance of their new work, and exciting future projects.
Album Release and Band Introduction
Alison Stewart kicks off the episode by celebrating the release of The War and Treaty’s new album, "Plus One," aptly launched on Valentine’s Day—a nod to the band’s deeply rooted themes of love in all its forms.
Alison Stewart [00:17]: "The War and Treaty dropped plus one on Valentine's Day. A perfect release date for this band whose members are a married couple and Michael Trotter."
The band members are introduced, highlighting their Grammy and American Music accolades, and hinting at a forthcoming movie based on their journey.
Live Performance: "Can I Get a Man"
The episode features a live performance of "Can I Get a Man," showcasing the band’s soulful and vibrant sound.
Michael Trotter [01:55]: "Can I get an amen? Giving you the best that we got yeah."
This performance sets the tone for the album’s exploration of love, resilience, and personal storytelling.
Recording at Fame Studios
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around recording their album at the legendary Fame Studios, known for its Muscle Shoals sound. Tanya and Michael emphasize the profound influence the studio’s rich history has on their music.
Tanya Trotter [06:43]: "There's a reverence in that building. And so us and our band, what we brought to that was that reverence."
The duo reflects on how the studio’s legacy of high standards and renowned musicians inspires them to elevate their own creative output.
The Significance of Country Music in Their Story
Alison Stewart references a New York Times profile headline: "The War and Treaty are writing their love story into country music history." Tanya and Michael discuss why country music serves as an ideal medium for their personal narratives.
Michael Trotter [07:35]: "Country music is always a good vehicle when it's an opportunity to tell a different story."
They highlight the genre’s roots, acknowledging its African origins and the Carter family’s influence, thus positioning themselves within a broader historical and cultural context.
Transition into Country Music
Tanya elaborates on their transition from R&B and gospel to country music, describing it as a natural evolution influenced by their love for storytelling.
Tanya Trotter [08:41]: "Country music, it found us... we infused the blues and the gospel, and it just happened to have certain instruments in there that lean into country music."
This fusion of genres underscores their commitment to authenticity and creative exploration.
Producing Their Own Album
A pivotal topic is the duo’s decision to take on production roles for "Plus One." Tanya discusses the growth and increased trust in their artistic vision that led them to produce their own music.
Tanya Trotter [16:37]: "It's growing into trusting yourself... the freedom to your band to be creative as well."
Alison adds her perspective on the collaborative nature of their production process, emphasizing the importance of band members like Max Brown in bringing their vision to life.
Alison Stewart [17:40]: "Always let Tanya lead. You won't fail."
Creative Risks and Artistic Integrity
The War and Treaty candidly discuss their willingness to take risks, both musically and in their fashion choices, to maintain artistic integrity.
Alison Stewart [15:12]: "We take those risks proudly. And at the end of the day, we take those risks because they're honest."
Their commitment to authenticity is a recurring theme, reinforcing their dedication to creating meaningful and impactful music.
Closing Track: "The Glorious Ones"
The episode features the heartfelt closing track, "The Glorious Ones," which serves as a hymn dedicated to each other. Tanya explains why this song was chosen as the final piece on the album.
Tanya Trotter [10:06]: "At the end of all my days, it's just she and I. And that's what makes my life glorious at the moment."
The song encapsulates their journey and the profound love that underpins their music.
Upcoming Movie Project
A major highlight is the announcement of a movie project about The War and Treaty, produced by none other than John Legend. Tanya shares the serendipitous encounter that led to this collaboration.
Tanya Trotter [21:47]: "John Legend is part of the film. He'll be producing it along with Gary Gilbert."
The movie, titled "The War Entry," promises to be a compelling portrayal of their love story and resilience.
Tour Announcement
The War and Treaty reveal their upcoming "Plus One Tour," set to commence on March 26th in Minneapolis.
Tanya Trotter [25:40]: "March 26th is our first day we hit the road."
They express excitement about connecting with fans and performing live, highlighting the tour as a continuation of their album’s narrative.
Final Remarks
Alison Stewart wraps up the episode by expressing gratitude to The War and Treaty for their time and performances.
Alison Stewart [26:12]: "Thank you to everyone for coming into the studio and performing. Really, really appreciate it."
The episode concludes on a high note, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating the release of "Plus One" and the upcoming tour.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Alison Stewart [00:17]: "The War and Treaty dropped plus one on Valentine's Day. A perfect release date for this band whose members are a married couple and Michael Trotter."
- Michael Trotter [07:35]: "Country music is always a good vehicle when it's an opportunity to tell a different story."
- Tanya Trotter [08:41]: "Country music, it found us... we infused the blues and the gospel, and it just happened to have certain instruments in there that lean into country music."
- Alison Stewart [15:12]: "We take those risks proudly. And at the end of the day, we take those risks because they're honest."
- Tanya Trotter [10:06]: "At the end of all my days, it's just she and I. And that's what makes my life glorious at the moment."
- Tanya Trotter [21:47]: "John Legend is part of the film. He'll be producing it along with Gary Gilbert."
- Alison Stewart [26:12]: "Thank you to everyone for coming into the studio and performing. Really, really appreciate it."
Conclusion
This episode of ALL OF IT offers a comprehensive look into The War and Treaty’s creative journey, their latest album "Plus One," and exciting future endeavors including a feature film and a nationwide tour. Their dedication to authentic storytelling, musical exploration, and resilience shines through, making this a must-listen for fans and new listeners alike.