Keeley and Nelson sound much bigger than a duo. Whether you like alternative folk or the vocal harmonies of the Fleet Foxes, this is an album worth checking out.
The Old Believers combine a taste for experimentation with traditional folk songwriting. The result are songs that are gentle without sounding twee. ‘Granny’s Song’ is the hit among the eight tracks on this mini album. ‘There It Is’ comes a close second.
19-year old Nelson Kempf quotes 1950’s Country singer Patsy Cline and Scottish indie band Belle And Sebastian as key influences of the duo. Nelson and his partner Keeley Boyle flit comfortably between the old fashioned (their choice of instruments) and the contemporary (the arrangements).
Watch The Old Believers On YouTube
It’s quite a slinky album with very little ballast. No bombast and no ‘we’re so authentic’ attitude. Quite refreshing, really.
Interestingly, Keeley and Nelson developed their music away from any established scene. Both hail from Alaska and moved to Portland, Oregon, two years ago. Looks like working outside alternative folk circles helped them find a unique sound.
We say: 
Listen to ‘Eight Golden Greats’ here.
Readers from the UK and Ireland can download ‘Eight Golden Greats’ here from iTunes UK.
