A conceptual entree into today’s music could be “another side of bluegrass.”

Inspired by the music of Alison Krauss and Molly Tuttle, today’s song choices by Quinn, Wylie, and Rev. Claire revolve around female vocal–led bluegrass. Gone are surface evocations of cornpone, hayrides, or the like. This is instead poignantly rich acoustic music, filled with striking melody, harmony, and nuance.

For nearly four decades, Alison Krauss has been celebrated as one of the most influential forces in roots music. Known for her sublime vocals and immaculately crafted arrangements she, along with Union Station, has created endlessly surprising and beautifully detailed song textures.

Molly Tuttle is a highly acclaimed contemporary bluegrass songwriter and performer often compared to Alison Krauss. Tuttle has publicly cited Krauss as an inspiration and role model, acknowledging her influence on women in bluegrass music. Of “Crooked Tree,” Molly Tuttle said in an NPR interview: “To me, it just means embracing who you are because I think we’re all crooked trees. Everyone has something that makes them feel unique and different from other people.”

Connected both to Rev. Claire’s sermon and in the vein of the other songs, we will also hear a new acoustic take on “Holiday” by Madonna!

 

—Chris