Barbie Barker of Troy’s Candy Ambulance, is embarking on a new solo project with debut single, “Unread” on July 19. The single comes ahead of an EP titled C. dropping July 26. As Barbie shifts her focus musically, she explores realms of vulnerability, emotions, and authenticity.
Barbie Barker stumbled upon this entirely new terrain when she started channeling immense genuity inspired by certain events in her life that deeply affected her. During the music-making process, it became apparent that the songs wouldn’t fit Candy Ambulance’s image. So instead, Barker, whose first name is Caitlin, choosing to take on the name Barbie after her grandmother, made the decision to undertake this era independently.
Her debut single off of C., “Unread” tells the story of becoming so passionate about something to the point where it becomes all-consuming and affects more than yourself. It’s about remembering how things used to be, the transitions that took place, and the choices that need to be made. The lyrics are intimate, admitting the feelings that Barker had such a hard time bringing to light.
Candy Ambulance is my first band and I put so much of my self worth into my role there. It was my salvation, the reason I go to therapy and work really hard to be a good person. I wrote about some really intense traumas I was working through and we toured the record where I bore my soul.
Barbie Barker on “Unread”
Against the backdrop of simple guitar and percussion, her voice guides the instruments along with the sentiment she’s expressing. The music starts slow and progressively picks up as more truths spill out. The words truly are the main attraction, combatting the feelings of pressure that Barker sings about, while the music submits to them. Put together by Barker and Tummy Rub Records, local musicians Joe Taurone (drums), Sam Walzyck (bass), and Dan Carr (guitar and production) understood and respected her vision.
The song is the result of pushing forward while still needing to heal from deep traumas as well as the defense mechanisms put in place to cope with that life. Through the words, Barker comes to terms with the fact that are all doing life for the first time, and trying to navigate it and mend ourselves as we go.
“Unread” is just one of five heartfelt indie-rock products of Barker’s writing journey. The upcoming EP C. is full of personal songs and anyone who listens can know they’re taking part in Barker’s healing. As a body of music, C. exemplifies the value of songwriting for artists and the solace that they can find. In Barker’s case, she uses it as an outlet that is less accessible when trying to appease everyone else.
This EP is a short and (bitter)sweet account of my vulnerability in songwriting as I move through my life. The songs didn’t fit my band and it was scary to branch out and do a project of my own. I worked with the incredibly talented folks at Tummy Rub Records and the experience was effortless. We even used my scratch guitar tracks because the vibe was so comfortable. I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished together.
Barbie Barker on C.
Additionally, to celebrate the release of her new music, Barker and the folks at Tummy Rub are holding a release show on Friday, July 19 at The Hangar on the Hudson in Troy. She will be joined by her collaborators as well as special guests toriendofstory and Canella, who also contributed to the E.P. The two bands will open for Barker with their own original music on a night full of authenticity and creative expression.
Pre-save and listen to “Unread” and C. on your preferred streaming platform. Purchase tickets for the release show here.
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