Michelle Branch has recruited longtime friend and fellow singer-songwriter Jessica Harp as her partner in a new musical venture: together, the two are The Wreckers. "The Wreckers is a project we have wanted to do for a long time," Branch affirms. "It's a mix between a lot of our separate influences and inspirations."

With four Top 10 hits, over 4 million records sold, a Grammy and a MTV Viewers Choice Award to her name, Branch has earned commercial success as well as critical acclaim for her songwriting.

With collaborator Harp, Branch has found new inspiration as well as a vibrant musical partner. Combining Branch's love for the folk and rock music she was raised on along with Harp's affinity for country music, The Wreckers are solidly in touch with their roots.

(And the name? "On the road, we always liked the dudes who had girlfriends!" Harp laughs. "They weren't just love triangles, they were love octagons. It made for some good songwriting material.")

Branch and Harp met five years ago when both were independent, unsigned singer-songwriters promoting their music online. After Branch signed to Maverick Records, a promotional stop brought her through Harp's hometown of Kansas City, MO. "I got on the tour bus and never went home!" Harp laughs.

Harp spent the following years singing back up for Branch while pursuing her own solo career in Nashville. She was in the car, on the way to sign a record deal, when Branch called her. "I said, 'Don't sign it!'" Branch recalls. "I've got a better idea - let's make a record together first. If you sign it now we may never make a record together."

"It's been an amazing experience," Harp says. "We both know we never would have been able to make this record on our own. I think that's what makes The Wreckers so special!"