On Plus One, The War and Treaty continue their mission of blending soul, country, rock, and gospel into an electrifying, deeply emotional experience. The husband-and-wife duo of Michael and Tanya Trotter have built a reputation for their powerhouse vocals and raw, heartfelt songwriting, and this latest album only strengthens that legacy. From the very first notes of “Love Like Whiskey,” the album’s fiery opener co-written with Miranda Lambert, they set the tone for a journey through love’s highs and lows, delivering each track with conviction and passion.
The album’s production, largely helmed by Michael Trotter and recorded at the legendary FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, adds a rich, vintage texture to their modern sound. Songs like “Can I Get an Amen?” channel the joyful fervor of a revival tent, while the slow-burning “Lead Me Home” rides on weeping pedal steel and a tender, aching vocal performance. The rollicking energy of “Called You By Your Name” bursts with New Orleans brass, turning a love song into a full-on celebration. Each track feels intentional, with arrangements that amplify the deep emotional core of their lyrics.
One of the album’s standout qualities is its emotional breadth. On “Teardrops in the Rain,” the duo strips things back, creating a smoky jazz lounge ballad that aches with vulnerability. Meanwhile, “Carried Away” brings honky-tonk grit and infectious energy, proving that The War and Treaty are just as comfortable setting a dance floor on fire as they are delivering a tearjerker. The climactic “Glorious Ones” offers a reflective moment of gratitude, looking back on love, struggle, and perseverance with a swelling, gospel-infused grandeur.
At its heart, Plus One is a testament to the power of love—not just romantic love, but the kind that sustains us through hardship, fuels resilience, and brings people together. The Trotters don’t shy away from the struggles relationships face, but they meet them with a sense of hope and unwavering commitment. Their music, much like their partnership, is built on trust, chemistry, and an almost spiritual connection, making every performance feel deeply personal and universally relatable.
With Plus One, The War and Treaty have crafted their most compelling record yet. It’s an album that refuses to be confined by genre, instead embracing the full spectrum of American roots music to create something uniquely their own. Whether you’re drawn in by the soaring vocals, the rich storytelling, or the sheer joy radiating from every track, this is an album that demands to be felt as much as it is heard. – Jason Felton