Hamilton Leithauser and Rostam Batmanglij are launching a joint tour to mark the 10th anniversary of their collaborative album, *I Had a Dream That You Were Mine*. The tour will begin Thursday at the 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C., reflecting a decade-long creative partnership between the two indie rock figures, both natives of the area.
The collaboration traces back to 2008, when Batmanglij’s band Vampire Weekend opened for Leithauser’s group the Walkmen. Their initial musical connection deepened during a lunch arranged by a mutual friend in 2012, coinciding with significant transitions in both their careers. At that time, Leithauser was preparing to release his first solo record after the Walkmen’s final album *Heaven* in 2012 and their subsequent hiatus. Meanwhile, Batmanglij was nearing his departure from Vampire Weekend, although he announced it publicly only in 2016.
Their meeting quickly sparked a creative rapport, with Batmanglij, known for producing music largely on his own at his computer, introducing Leithauser to a new approach to songwriting. This collaboration first resulted in Batmanglij producing two tracks, “I Retired” and “Alexandria,” on Leithauser’s 2014 solo album *Black Hours*. Their work culminated in the 2016 release of their full-length joint album *I Had a Dream That You Were Mine*, which blends elements of retro doo-wop, Leonard Cohen-influenced torch songs, baroque pop, and country rock.
The album was primarily written and recorded in Los Angeles and New York, where Batmanglij and Leithauser reside respectively, but also includes sessions recorded in Batmanglij’s childhood bedroom in Georgetown. The record showcases a distinctive fusion of Leithauser’s vocal style and Batmanglij’s pop production sensibilities, reflecting their shared background and unique creative chemistry.
Despite their longstanding collaboration, the pair has not previously undertaken a full tour together, although Batmanglij has occasionally joined Leithauser for live shows. The upcoming tour, supported by a band comprising drums, bass, and pedal steel guitar, promises to feature the album’s songs alongside special guests and varied set lists.
Batmanglij noted the challenge in pleasing every attendee but expressed confidence the performances will resonate with fans. The opening tour date is scheduled for Thursday at 7 p.m. at the 9:30 Club, located at 815 V St. NW, with tickets priced at $56.70.