By Susie Salva
Wondering what Michelle Branch has been up to lately? She is half of the country crossover duo the Wreckers along side her partner Jessica Harp. The two have just released a new live CD/DVD entitled, “Way Back Home: Live From New York” on Warner Brothers records. These country darlings are spunky, energetic, and fun-loving.
This CD/DVD was recorded at a sold-out show at the Bowery Ballroom in New York City on July 13, 2007 and is a rare glimpse into the music and friendship behind the Wreckers.
At the time of the recording, the girls had not yet announced their plans to record solo projects. On this extremely special evening, Branch and Harp knew they wanted to document the musical bond between them before they ventured out on their own in the country genre. This is a phenomenal DVD that captures the girls in a live atmosphere where the viewer feels like they are right in the living room of this quaint venue at the Bowery Ballroom.
“I am so excited to offer this live CD/DVD to our fans,” said Michelle Branch. “The fans continually come out to support us and this is our way of giving back to them. We also give the fans who are unable to come out to our shows, an amazing opportunity at they have the best seat in the house with this DVD. This DVD also includes a bonus interview with both Branch and Harp behind the scenes of the video shoot and insight into their thoughts behind some of their most successful songs and material.
Starting off the set, Branch & Harp delve into “The Good Kind,” energizing the audience and welcoming them into their scene. “Damn that Radio,” is an up tempo fun song and “Different Truck, Same Loser,” the duo say that is influenced by Dwight Yoakam and then they pay homage to “Tennessee” saying that they’d like to change the lyrics to New York but it doesn’t fit the scheme of the tune. Rounding out their performance they play into to the crowd by performing their fans favorite, “Leave The Pieces.” The fans sang along with the girls in this family friendly concert.
This duo released their debut album, “Stand Still Look Pretty,” in May 2006. The album debut at #4 on the Top Country Album charts and had three singles in the Country Top 40 chart, including “Leave the Pieces,” “My Oh My,” and “Tennessee”. In 2006, the Wreckers were the first duo to reach #1 with their debut single, “Leave the Pieces”, since Brooks & Dunn in 1991 and they are the first female duo to reach #1 with their debut single in over 50 years. Obviously, they have proven talent.
The Wreckers music is infectious and they perform together like season veterans. Having been on the road since last February they have honed their skills and are bringing their music to their fans and new fans through this remarkable DVD. It’s fun having the best seat in the house and it is evident that the girls are giving it their all. Check them out at: www.thewreckers.com or on their myspace page: www.myspace.com/thewreckers
