Julien Baker and TORRES graced the stage at The Lyric on a captivating Tuesday night, donning matching sequined suits and accompanied by a full live band. This spectacular performance on April 29 was a pivotal moment on their ongoing “Send a Prayer My Way Tour,” coinciding with the release of their collaborative album of the same name on April 18.
As the clock struck 7 p.m., The Lyric began to fill up with eager attendees eagerly anticipating the opening act, Big Benny Bailey, at 8 p.m., followed by the mesmerizing sets from Julien Baker and TORRES at 9 p.m.
Hailing from Memphis, Julien Baker has made a name for herself not only through her solo ventures but also as part of the acclaimed indie rock supergroup Boygenius. On the other hand, TORRES, also known as Mackenzie Ruth Scott, grew up in Macon, Ga., and graduated from Belmont University. The duo has been crafting music together professionally since 2024.
The concert was a showcase of tracks predominantly drawn from their latest album, “Send a Prayer My Way.” Opening the show with the energetic “Bottom of a Bottle,” the audience erupted into cheers. The crowd also resonated deeply with “Dirt,” a poignant moment featuring acoustic guitars and live violin.
Both Baker and Scott are icons of the LGBTQ+ community, embracing their queer identities through their heartfelt lyrics that explore the challenges of growing up in Southern religious environments. A standout moment was when Scott dedicated “No Desert Flower,” a love ballad about enduring through hardships with a long-term partner, to their wife, drawing enthusiastic cheers from the audience.
Attendees like Sydney Guntharp and Kaitlyn Busby expressed their admiration for Baker’s music, with some attendees noting how the concert provided a sense of belonging within Oxford’s LGBTQ+ community. The intimate setting allowed fans to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.
In addition to their original compositions, Julien Baker and TORRES treated the audience to covers of country classics like Tim McGraw’s “Something Like That” and Merle Haggard’s “Mama Tried.” These renditions, sung by two queer Southern women, infused these tracks with new depth and meaning, resonating with the crowd.
The duo also debuted an unreleased song, “My Baby Loves Me More Than She Used To,” which captivated the audience with its raw emotion and authenticity. Fans like Kent Bynum and Deja Samuel expressed their delight at experiencing this exclusive performance, showcasing the duo’s versatility and artistry.
Julien Baker and TORRES’ collaborative effort, “Send a Prayer My Way,” made a significant impact on the music scene, debuting at No. 5 on Billboard’s Top Album Sales chart. The album's success underscores the duo’s talent and resonates with fans for its heartfelt themes and genre-defying sound.
In conclusion, Julien Baker and TORRES’ performance at The Lyric was a testament to their artistry, passion, and spirit. Their music not only entertains but also serves as a beacon of inclusivity and authenticity within the music industry and beyond. As they continue to enchant audiences with their soul-stirring melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, their impact on music and culture remains profound and enduring.
