Gillian Welch fans have something to look forward to as the singer-songwriter will be taking the lead on a track for the first time in 13 years. The song, titled “Empty Trainload of Sky,” will be featured on Welch and her longtime collaborator David Rawlings’ upcoming album Woodland.
This marks a significant moment for Welch, who is known for her haunting harmonies and powerful songwriting. The last time she sang lead on a track was in 2008 on her album The Harrow & The Harvest. Since then, she has primarily taken on a supporting role in their musical partnership.
“Empty Trainload of Sky” is a beautiful and melancholic track that showcases Welch’s unique vocals and Rawlings’ masterful guitar playing. The song tells the story of a train journey and the emotions that come with it, with Welch’s voice perfectly capturing the longing and nostalgia.
Fans have been eagerly anticipating new music from Welch and Rawlings, who have been making music together for over two decades. Woodland will be their first album since 2016’s Boots No. 1: The Official Revival Bootleg, which featured unreleased tracks and demos from their early days.
In addition to “Empty Trainload of Sky,” the album will also include 10 other tracks, all written and performed by Welch and Rawlings. The duo recorded the album in their own studio, Woodland Sound Studios, in Nashville, Tennessee.
Welch and Rawlings have been praised for their timeless sound and their ability to capture the essence of traditional American music. Their music has been featured in films and TV shows, and they have toured extensively, gaining a loyal fan base along the way.
Woodland is set to be released on November 5th, and fans can expect more heartfelt and soulful tracks from the talented duo. With “Empty Trainload of Sky” as a preview, it’s clear that Welch and Rawlings’ musical partnership is as strong as ever, and their new album is sure to be a must-listen for fans of Americana and folk music.
