Gillian Welch is not a hardscrabble 1930s farmer, but you could be forgiven for wondering about that after listening to her music. Welch’s haunting, minimalist country-folk songs capture the feel of a time gone by, when rural residents would gather on porches with acoustic instruments and sing about the troubles and sorrows of their daily lives. Welch grew up in Los Angeles, but as a college student she discovered traditional bluegrass and Americana after hearing bluegrass legends the Stanley Brothers.
Along with her longtime musical collaborator David Rawlings, Welch has released five albums of sparse, evocative music that blends together old-fashioned country, blues, folk and bluegrass with a modern intelligence and self-awareness. Welch’s 2001 album Time (The Revelator) was one of the most acclaimed releases of the decade, establishing Welch as an important creative voice and not just an imitator of old-timey musical styles. She was a key contributor to the hugely popular bluegrass-focused soundtrack of the movie O Brother, Where Art Thou?, and she’s collaborated with artists such as Alison Krauss, Ryan Adams and the Decemberists. As always, Welch will be joined by Rawlings for her live show, continuing their intertwined exploration of traditional American music in a contemporary context.
House of Blues at Mandalay Bay, 9 p.m. June 23, starting at $29.50 plus tax and fee, 18+. 800.745.3000 Ticketmaster
