Gillian Welch and David Rawlings are unbelievable. Rawlings is an absolutely astonishing guitarist. Living in Nashville affords me the opportunity to catch them in tiny venues - I've seen them a few times at the Station Inn, which is a small bluegrass club downtown. I was also at the Ryman for the show that turned into the "Down From the Mountain" CD/DVD.
You can't go wrong with any of their albums, but I'd hold off on Soul Journey until you're convinced you like them. It's a bit of a departure.
I had a bizarre (and uniquely Nashville) experience yesterday. I went to a favorite hole in the wall Jewish deli called Goldie's for lunch, looked up, and there's John Prine sitting at the next table. Five years in this town, and it's still disconcerting every time something like that happens.
Back to Welch/Rawlings - my vote is for Revival or Hell Among The Yearlings. Good luck - I don't think you'll be disappointed with any selection you make.
