For three decades, Gillian Welch and David Rawlings have been crafting their distinctive brand of stripped-down, dreamy country folk. Over the years, their music has remained remarkably consistent, even as Rawlings has taken on a more prominent role and their recording pace has slowed. Their latest album, Woodland, continues to explore themes of contemplation, despair, and transcendence. Despite the occasional modern reference, the album evokes a timeless atmosphere, as if the music itself is rooted in the oldest traditions of storytelling and song.
Following their 2020 covers album All the Good Times Are Past and Gone, Welch and Rawlings return with a collection of original songs on Woodland. The album opens with “Empty Trainload of Sky,” a track that captures their unique blend of laid-back grooves and existential musings. The song’s lyrics, which include a nod to Neil Young, encapsulate the duo’s ability to weave together the spiritual and the mundane, creating music that feels both familiar and otherworldly.
Rawlings steps into the spotlight on a few tracks, most notably “What We Had,” where his vocals evoke the nostalgic warmth of Gram Parsons. However, it’s Welch’s rough, haunting voice that truly anchors the album. Her vocals, often underappreciated in discussions of great singers, bring a raw emotional depth to the music, making each song feel like a journey through a landscape of loss and longing.
The album’s most powerful moments often come in its longer tracks, such as “North Country” and “Here Stands a Woman.” These songs allow Welch to stretch out her phrasing, creating expansive, haunting soundscapes. The bluesy “Howdy Howdy,” where Welch and Rawlings share vocal duties, also stands out, highlighting their seamless musical partnership.
After three decades together, Welch and Rawlings remain true to their path—slow, beautiful, and tinged with melancholy. While they may take their time, they continue to create music that resonates deeply, showing no signs of losing their touch. – Jason Felton