Gillian Welch’s record label Acony Records is proud to announce Willie Watson’s debut solo album Folk Singer Vol. 1 to be released on May 6, 2014. The album was produced by David Rawlings, longtime friend and producer of Watson’s previous band, Old Crow Medicine Show. “There’s a lot of weight in the way Willie performs,” says Rawlings. “He’s had some tragedy in his life, which has informed his art. There’s an emotional edge to what he does because of who he is as a human being. Willie is the only one of his generation who can make me forget these songs were ever sung before.” The album, recorded at Gillian and David’s own Woodland Sound Studios, features ten songs ranging from folk standards to obscure gems.

Watson has produced a fantastic album, overflowing with some impressive guitar and banjo playing and that thin, nervy yet emotive voice that can circle Appalachian folk, bluegrass and blues with equal ease and aplomb. Highly recommended.