Asher White has unveiled a comprehensive cover album of Jessica Pratt's inaugural 2012 self-titled record, earning significant commendation from Pratt herself. This release not only pays tribute to Pratt's original work but also announces White's upcoming tour dates, offering fans a dual treat of new music and live performances. White's artistic endeavor is a testament to her profound appreciation for Pratt's music, transformed into a creative project that has garnered positive attention from the original artist.
White's reimagining of Pratt's debut album is a showcase of her versatile musical abilities. She single-handedly navigates over a dozen instruments, lending her voice, expertise on electric and acoustic guitars, banjo, bass, drums, electronics, percussion, prepared piano, string arrangements, synthesizers, and programming to each track. This extensive instrumental involvement allows White to infuse her distinctive style into every song, even though all compositions originated from Pratt. The album also features guest appearances, with Bee Clark contributing vocals on 'Casper' and Lila Lifton adding violin to 'Midnight Wheels.' This cover project follows White's 2025 album, '8 Tips for Full Catastrophe Living.'
The inspiration for this ambitious project stemmed from White's discovery of Jessica Pratt's debut album around her 21st birthday in late 2021. The album deeply resonated with her, becoming a constant companion. As White explained, her prolonged immersion in the music led to an unconscious assimilation, where she began to hear "phantom harmonies" and "imagined arrangements" alongside the original tracks. These auditory visions eventually became so vivid that she felt compelled to bring them to life. She embarked on a journey to learn and reinterpret the entire album, a process she describes as a "fun exercise" to actualize her creative fantasies. White views the swift completion of this working album as proof of the enduring power, adaptability, simplicity, and inherent quality of Pratt's music, as well as its profound personal significance to her.
In support of her new cover album, Asher White is set to embark on a headlining tour across the West Coast in May. Her itinerary includes stops in cities such as San Diego, Los Angeles, Portland, and Seattle. Before her West Coast leg, White is scheduled to perform in Brooklyn on April 28. Fans will have the opportunity to experience White's unique interpretations of Pratt's work and her original material live.
White's newly released cover album serves as a creative dialogue with Jessica Pratt's initial work, demonstrating a deep respect while introducing her own innovative musical perspective. This collection, alongside her planned tour, underscores her artistic evolution and connection to the music that has significantly influenced her.