Medium Build, the musical project of singer-songwriter Nick Carpenter, has unveiled 'Yoke', the second single from his upcoming EP, 'Marietta'. The track features Julien Baker, a long-time friend and fellow musician who shares a similar background with Carpenter. Both artists grew up queer in the Southern church, an experience that deeply informs the poignant and reflective tone of 'Yoke'.
Carpenter and Baker's connection dates back to their college days at Middle Tennessee State University, where they bonded over their shared love for music and the complexities of their upbringing. 'Yoke' dives into the struggle of reconciling one's identity with a community that may not fully accept it. Baker's vocals lend a haunting beauty to the song, particularly on the line, "I gave them my youth, made some lifelong friends, who no longer acknowledge me." This lyric encapsulates the pain of losing connection with people who were once central to your life.
'Yoke' follows 'Triple Marathon' as the second offering from the 'Marietta' EP, due out on November 15th. The EP's title refers to Carpenter's hometown in Georgia, and the songs explore themes of family, faith, and the challenges of adolescence. "Marietta is more so a zoom out of my childhood,” Carpenter explains. “Extending grace to my family. To myself. I just wanna thank myself and my parents for surviving my childhood.”
This release follows Medium Build's acclaimed debut album, 'Country', which garnered praise from various publications including NPR Music, People, Billboard, and NME. 'Country' grapples with the concept of home, reflecting Carpenter's own experience of being rooted in the South while also splitting his time between Anchorage, Alaska and Nashville, Tennessee.
Carpenter describes his approach to music-making as deeply personal and intuitive. "I wanted this album to have my goddamn DNA on it,” he shares, referring to 'Country'. “I wanted ‘Country’ to have a human touch. I want ‘Country’ to be something you love with and dance with and cry with and sleep with and lean into.”
In a heartfelt statement about Carpenter, Baker describes him as "a mind hungry for beauty, for music, for understanding; fiercely curious, determined, but importantly never above laughing at himself." She admires the earnestness and humour he brings to his music, allowing him to explore different styles and narratives without losing the emotional core of his songwriting.
Carpenter reciprocates the admiration, recalling their first meeting when Baker was just 17. He describes her early performances as raw and passionate, and he felt an immediate kinship with her due to their shared experiences with faith and the South. Carpenter credits Baker with pushing him towards greater honesty in his songwriting. He also reflects on the challenges of navigating the music industry and expresses gratitude for Baker's friendship and support.
With a UK tour kicking off in November, Medium Build is poised to continue captivating audiences with his heartfelt and insightful music. 'Yoke' is a powerful testament to the enduring power of friendship and the courage it takes to embrace your true self.
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