Wed., June 26, Iris DeMent

Iris DeMent doesn't record often and performs in Sacramento even less frequently. Last fall's release, Sing the Delta (her first new material in 16 years), was another example of her timeless homegrown music, this time referencing her native Arkansas. During the years between a trio of exceptional albums in the 1990s and Sing the Delta, DeMent appeared in the film Songcatcher, released a gospel album, and made the most of the folk and country duet format with the likes of Ralph Stanley, Steve Earle, Emmylou Harris and John Prine. Her pairing with Prine on In Spite of Ourselves remains one of my all-time favorites. This rare appearance is highly recommended. 1000 K Street, www.irisdement.com.