update: Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Lucinda Williams [ tickets ] has extended through August her tour in support of her latest album, "Essence."

Williams will spend most of July and August performing shows on the West Coast. Jim Lauderdale will serve as Williams’ opening act for the tour's summer leg, which kicks off July 14 in Indianapolis. Lauderdale’s latest CD is "The Other Sessions" (Dualtone).

"Essence" (Island/Lost Highway) was produced by Williams and Texas musician Charlie Sexton. "Car Wheels on a Gravel Road" (Mercury), Williams' previous release, earned her the 1998 Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album.

Williams contributed a rendition of "Angels Laid in My Way" to "Avalon Blues" (Vanguard), a Mississippi John Hurt tribute album that hit stores on June 14. The album also features contributions from Beck, John Hiatt, Steve Earle and others.