This Event has Passed
Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore are two iconic figures in American roots music, each with a storied career that spans decades and genres. Though they hail from different musical backgrounds—Alvin from the punk-infused roots rock scene of Southern California and Gilmore from the cosmic country tradition of Texas—their collaboration is a powerful fusion of songwriting mastery, raw authenticity, and deep respect for American musical traditions.
Dave Alvin first rose to prominence in the early 1980s as the guitarist and chief songwriter for The Blasters, a band that blended rockabilly, blues, and R&B with punk energy. Known for his sharp storytelling and searing guitar work, Alvin carved out a solo career that delved deep into Americana, earning a Grammy Award in 2001 for Public Domain: Songs from the Wild Land. His lyrics often explore the lives of working-class Americans, infused with a blend of grit, soul, and historical awareness.
Jimmie Dale Gilmore, a founding member of The Flatlanders alongside Butch Hancock and Joe Ely, represents a different strand of American roots music. With a voice that’s both ethereal and soulful, Gilmore’s style blends traditional country with elements of folk, blues, and mysticism. Known for songs like “Dallas” and “My Mind’s Got a Mind of Its Own,” Gilmore’s poetic lyrics and laid-back delivery have made him a revered figure in the Texas music scene and beyond.
When Alvin and Gilmore first joined forces in the late 2010s, their musical chemistry was immediately evident. Their first collaborative album, Downey to Lubbock (2018), was a critical success, showcasing their ability to weave together personal stories, cultural commentary, and genre-blending arrangements. The album highlighted their shared love for classic American songcraft, covering tunes by Woody Guthrie, John Stewart, and Lightnin' Hopkins, alongside originals that spoke to their journeys and friendship.
Their performances are marked by mutual admiration and a shared reverence for the deep well of American music. Alvin brings the fire of blues and rock, while Gilmore offers the warmth and introspection of country and folk. Together, they create a sound that is both timeless and fresh, rooted in tradition but unafraid to explore new territory.
Whether on record or live in concert, Dave Alvin and Jimmie Dale Gilmore stand as torchbearers of authentic American music—storytellers, troubadours, and true believers in the power of a great song.
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3058676-0
Facebook: https://go.evvnt.com/3058676-2
