Julien Baker and TORRES debut “Sugar in the Tank” with live TV premiere and NYC show
Last week, Julien Baker and TORRES premiered their collaborative single “Sugar in the Tank” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The single, now available via Matador Records, was quickly followed by a sold-out performance at New York City’s Mercury Lounge, marking an exciting chapter for both artists.
The duo’s appearance on The Tonight Show highlighted the song’s stripped-back yet compelling style, pairing Baker’s banjo work with TORRES’ overdriven Telecaster guitar. The full band accompaniment, including pedal steel and strings, brought depth to the track, creating a rich yet understated sound. Lyrically, “Sugar in the Tank” reflects on a relationship, layering themes of defiance and self-assurance into its country-inspired roots.
Baker and TORRES’ musical partnership draws from their shared experiences of growing up queer in the South, blending their love for country music with a fresh perspective on its traditions. TORRES, the stage name of Mackenzie Scott, noted that the collaboration gave them an opportunity to reclaim country iconography while remaining true to their roots.
The live debut on The Tonight Show was followed by the single’s release and has already garnered strong praise from fans and critics alike. Baker’s crisp vocals met TORRES’ grounded delivery, creating a dynamic interplay that felt natural and well-balanced. Production choices for the track leaned on a raw, organic aesthetic, allowing the emotion and storytelling to shine through without unnecessary embellishment.
“Sugar in the Tank” is the latest step in Julien Baker’s flourishing career, which began with her 2015 debut Sprained Ankle. Over the years, her emotive and introspective approach to songwriting has earned her widespread acclaim, most notably through her work with boygenius alongside Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus. The trio’s 2023 album the record won three Grammy Awards and was supported by a landmark tour, including sold-out dates at Madison Square Garden and the Hollywood Bowl.
TORRES has likewise built a reputation for fearless songwriting across six studio albums. Their latest release, What an Enormous Room, recorded in 2022, combines incisive lyrics with layered instrumentation, underscoring Scott’s range and collaborative spirit. The album featured contributions from Sarah Jaffe and TJ Allen, highlighting Scott’s ability to adapt and innovate.
With its country influences and heartfelt storytelling, “Sugar in the Tank” offers a unique space for Baker and TORRES to explore shared themes while maintaining their individual artistry. Fans will be eager to see what comes next for this standout collaboration.
Watch the performance of “Sugar in the Tank” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on stream the studio audio.
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