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As a matter of fact, this one grows on me the more I hear it. At first, I didn't listen to this one because her other CDs had higher ratings overall in the reviews. I heard of Gillian Welch through the "O Brother" movie and soundtrack (one of the "sirens"), and began to listen to cuts off some of her CDs. Gillian has a "lazy" style on this that is perfect for those moody-weather days (or any others for that fact). But, when I decided to listen, I was immediately hooked. I bought the CD and haven't been disappointed in the least. She combines "old-time", "new grass" and "blues-flavor" in a modern, acoustic (except for one song) fashion that is addictive. I hope she does more work like this CD.
I never new of Gillian Welch until I went to a concert in Berkeley,CA recently. She brings so many emotions with her music.The instruments are soulfinding. She blew me away. This amazing vocalist and musician was by far one of the best I have ever heard. Her voice is unbelievable. A must have for anyone who appreciates heartfelt, beautiful music.
There is a great profile of Welch and Rawlings in the New Yorker titled "The Ghostly Ones". Google "Gillian Welch" "New Yorker".
What do you get listening to a Gillian Welch recording. Her last cd, Soul Journey, was a departure from her previous works, and is alright. It is such a treat to see these two perform live (or on tv, like I've seen them).
Gillian Welch's sophomore album, Hell Among The Yearlings, has to be her best in my best opinion. As much as I love Gillian Welch's music, I have to credit David Rawlings for giving it that extra special touch.Best tracks here include, in no special order, My Morphine, Good Til Now, Miner's Refrain, Winter's Come and Gone, and I'm Not Afraid to Die. You get a collection of heartfelt, melodic, simple, and beautiful songs that range from melancholy to inspiring.
The two work so well together. Welch teams up on most songs with her partner in crime, David Rawlings. whom (if you've seen this guy, i'm sure you'll agree) is an absolute magician on the guitar.
Buy this cd, it is her best. But I definitely hope for something like "Yearlings" on her next effort.
A music of 'instant melancholia', or, if I may borrow some of Welch's own beautiful lyrics here- a music that's like '(.). Welch's voice and Rawlings' guitar sound as intense, beneficent and honest as music can get. I enjoy an extremely addictive mixture here of haunting poetry and music that comes straight from the heart, in an American country/folklike-style that reverberates and finds refuge in my soul immediately. morphine' that 'will be the death of me'. Very impressive and highly recommended.
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