The sold out Palais Theatre was buzzing with excitement as Americana queen Gillian Welch and performing partner/husband Dave Rawlings (Dave Rawlings Machine) were about to put an end to their 11 year Australian absence. After a dimming of the lights caused a hushed silence, the critically acclaimed country duo walked onstage to thunderous applause. Welch gave the audience a quick hello before delving into Scarlet Town, which was immediately met with cheers of recognition.
The pair are musicians in the most traditional sense, born to strum and harmonise. Their voices melted together like honey and were often indistinguishable, such as on the upbeat The Way It Goes. The setlist was generous, spanning 22 songs, an intermission and two encores. As the night progressed, Welch and Rawlings’ onstage interaction felt more natural, and the audience interaction became downright charming. Certainly in their element when performing, each frequently got lost in their instrument, solos growing wilder and more erratic, most notably on fan favourite Revelator.
Our eyes were constantly drawn to the musicians’ complex finger plucking and tapping cowboy boots. There were no flashy lights or costumes here. The most movement from Welch came during Six White Horses, in which she rhythmically clapped, thigh slapped, and line danced, drawing whoops of approval from the audience.
The Tennessee natives wrapped up the evening with a series of covers, including a highly energetic version of Cash and Carter’s Jackson. With each of their three encores sparking a standing ovation, it’s easy to say the night was a success.
BY MICHAEL CLARK
Photo by David Harris
Loved: The absolute professionalism.
Hated: The 40 minute intermission.
Drank: In the atmosphere.
