Kevin Bacon and Jennifer Nettles are not just teaming up for Amazon Prime's supernatural series, The Bondsman, but they are also releasing a collaborative album titled Hell and Back. This country project, featuring an array of original tracks penned by the duo, is set to stream on Friday, April 4, 2025, just a day after all episodes of The Bondsman were released on Thursday, April 3, 2025. The series follows Bacon as a murdered bounty hunter who is resurrected to track down demons that escape from Hell.
What makes Hell and Back particularly fascinating is that it is entirely inspired by the series, with Bacon and Nettles performing as their on-screen characters. The decision to accompany The Bondsman with this country album aligns with the Southern setting of the show, where both characters hail from Georgia. This creative synergy exemplifies how music and storytelling can intertwine, enhancing the viewer's experience.
Both Bacon and Nettles have impressive musical backgrounds. Nettles is a revered solo artist and one-half of the chart-topping duo, Sugarland, while Bacon plays in a band with his brother, Michael, called The Bacon Brothers. They are set to perform at the Stagecoach Festival 2025 in April, further showcasing their musical talents.
The album Hell and Back features eight tracks, including ‘Our Highway’ and ‘Special Kind Of Crazy’, with Bacon and Nettles appearing on every track except ‘Woe Death’, which features Nettles alone. Given the innovative premise of The Bondsman, country fans will be eager to see how the duo translates the show's unique themes into their music.
Speaking about their collaboration, Bacon shared, “We just had a very good musical songwriting connection right away.” The two first met in a New York studio, where they began exchanging voice notes and songwriting ideas. Bacon elaborated, “Like I’d say, ‘How about this for the bridge?’ And she’d send back a verse. It was great.” This instant musical chemistry reflects the deeper connection between their on-screen characters, who once had a musical act before their relationship unraveled.
In The Bondsman, Bacon portrays Hub Halloran, a Georgia bail enforcer with a troubled past who is killed in the line of duty and resurrected by the devil to hunt demons. Bacon describes his character as a self-destructive man who has sabotaged his own music career and his marriage. The series delves into themes of redemption as Halloran learns to confront his demons, both literally and figuratively.
Co-star Jolene Purdy remarked on the musical collaboration between Bacon and Nettles, describing it as a “private concert” and calling the experience unforgettable. With music playing a central role both on and off the screen, The Bondsman showcases not only emotional storytelling but also authentic musical collaboration, making it a must-watch for fans of both actors and music lovers alike.
Nettles expressed her excitement about the project, stating, “As a musician, the way I read things is the way I write things—I don’t read with my eyes, I read with my ears.” She added that the script captivated her immediately, highlighting the authenticity in the storyline. “These words jumped off the page as real to me. I loved the storyline,” she said.
With the release of The Bondsman and the accompanying album Hell and Back, both Bacon and Nettles are poised to make a significant impact on the entertainment landscape. The combination of their talents in acting and music not only enriches the narrative of the series but also offers fans a unique experience that blends two art forms seamlessly.
As the series unfolds, viewers will witness Bacon's character working alongside his mother, Kitty (played by Beth Grant), while keeping an eye on his ex-wife Maryanne (Nettles) and contending with her criminal boyfriend, Lucky (Damon Herriman). This dynamic adds layers to the storytelling, enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative.
Bacon, who has been performing with The Bacon Brothers since 1995, finds joy in merging his passions for music and acting. He commented, “I feel lucky to get a chance to sing with her, basically,” referring to Nettles’ exceptional talent. This collaboration not only showcases their musical abilities but also highlights their chemistry as performers.
As fans anticipate the release of Hell and Back, they can expect to hear a mix of heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies that reflect the themes of the show. The album promises to resonate with audiences, offering a soundtrack that complements the emotional journey of the characters.
In a recent interview, Bacon mentioned the importance of music in the series, revealing that he played “Ain’t No Grave,” popularized by Johnny Cash, during pitch meetings to help sell the show. This commitment to integrating music into the narrative speaks to the heart of The Bondsman and its exploration of redemption and personal growth.
The release of Hell and Back not only marks a new chapter for both actors but also serves as a reminder of the power of music in storytelling. As they navigate their characters’ journeys, Bacon and Nettles invite audiences to join them on a compelling adventure filled with emotion, creativity, and the timeless appeal of country music.
With the potential for a second season, Bacon expressed hope that they can continue exploring the music that enriches the storyline. “If we’re lucky enough to get a second season, I hope we can keep exploring the music,” he said, hinting at the exciting possibilities that lie ahead for both the series and their collaborative efforts.
As the world tunes in to watch The Bondsman, fans can also look forward to streaming the album Hell and Back, which is set to become a significant addition to the country music landscape. This unique partnership between Kevin Bacon and Jennifer Nettles exemplifies how creativity can flourish when artistic talents unite.
