Live Show Review: Shovels & Rope, Pilgrimage Festival

Charleston, South Carolina duo Shovels & Rope graced the main stage of Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival in Franklin, Tennessee recently and absolutely brought the house down. Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst have a connection and energy that can’t be taught or recreated–it is natural, it is a part of who they are, and every time they perform, the magic is tangible. Swapping between instruments and harmonies, the duo never skips a beat, there songs carry a tight and confident grit. They are equal parts polished and raw, walking that fine line between the two with perfection.

Their inspired set at Pilgrimage was pure joy from beginning to end; even with minor mishaps and goosebump-inducing moments throughout, the Trent and Hearst never lost their fire. It’s unbelievable how much sound those two people produced–they owned the main stage and set the bar for the rest of the weekend. Shovels & Rope, who are well on their way to achieving legendary status, are a powerhouse and the ultimate roots music experience.

(Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival)
(Photo by Mickey Bernal/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival)
(Photo by Mickey Bernal/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival)
(Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival)
(Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival)
(Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival)
(Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival)
(Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival)

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