Pitchfork

Gillian Welch isn't a well- known gal by any means, and that's a cryin' shame. Her 1996 debut, Revival dealt with tragedy, loss, torment and rage in ways that hit closer to home than one might be comfortable with. And Hell Among The Yearlings isn't dramatically different; in fact, it's a bit darker.

Her music is the encapsulation of every empty feeling you've ever known. When you're breaking down, feeling worthless, and giving up, this is the music that speaks to you. The hollow but warm acoustic guitar and Welch's beautiful, emotive vocals are comforting, and the lyrics seem to say a whole lot using very few words.

It was feared that after mainstream country music fans expressed little or no interest in Welch's Revival that she might trade artistic integrity for cash and fame. Not so, though. From the harrowing "Caleb Meyer" to the sparse and creepy "The Devil Had A Hold Of Me" to the incredible "I'm Not Afraid To Die," Hell Among The Yearlings is a powerful sophomore release if there ever was one. Welch has truly revealed herself as one of America's great songwriters.