Gillian Welch, David Rawlings, Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, and Dave Rawlings Machine

I thought the Gillian Welch concert at the MN Zoo Amphitheater was phenomenal. First of all, the venue itself was perfect. The Zoo's amphitheater was small and intimate while providing a natural open air backdrop. Perfect for a summer night. But what made the night so special were the artists themselves. Gillian Welch did not disappoint. Her voice and stage presence were captivating. Her partner and lead guitarist, David Rawlings absolutely killed it. Both of them performed with such passion and feeling as individuals and worked great as a duo as well. Their in-between-song banter was short but funny. They played two incredible sets, mixing upbeat numbers with slower numbers from a variety of their albums, and played two encores. Not only did the crowd thoroughly enjoy themselves, Gillian and David seemed to as well. I am already looking forward to the next time they are in town. Only, this time I will bring my young daughter, so she, too, can experience the musical magic that is Gillian Welch.