Indie-folk duo Saint Sister bring their enriching blend of folk with their debut EP ‘Madrid.’

The Northern Irish pairing of Gemma Doherty and Morgan MacIntyre formed in November 2014, and following some time writing together, developed their self-coined ‘atmosfolk.’ A novel sound, it feels natural, authentic and bespoke. An impressive coup so early in their career.

Recorded in Kerry and co-produced by Alex Ryan (known better as Hozier’s bassist), Madrid opens proceedings. It’s enchanting dark harmonics and submerged electronics lay the markings for a truly unique, magnetic journey. It’s this journey which becomes the canvas upon where Saint Sister paint their alternative pop melodies and Celtic instrumentation. Castles continues with the dreamy tones, albeit focusing more on its domestic tale; “my mother is lonely / my father speaks only to himself.” Wooden percussive tones add a deep warmth to the music. Being a two-piece, Saint Sister sounds remarkably sonic thus far.

We carry forward, and with a smart shift of tempo, Blood Moon shows a little swagger, with finger clicks galore, medieval vocal hooks fill the gaps between a fuller-band sound. Versions Of Hate closes the EP with sentiment. Again the lyrics portray a well-delivered message; “I’ve been busy making enemies of everyone but you / we sit side by side pretending we don’t know it / ask me if I love you / I’ve been wondering that too.” The song develops by its midpoint into something else, something more, before ending with a sense of effortlessness.

Saint Sister have so far gained support slots with the likes of Will Butler (Arcade Fire) and San Fermin and are currently supporting O Emperor and Wyvern Lingo on their regional tours. Having now gained the support of GoldenPlec, their debut EP is available now on Bandcamp and was released on Trout Records.

Tour Dates
Nov 22 Sun – Wyvern Lingo support – Dolans, Limerick
Nov 26 Thu – Wyvern Lingo support – Spirit Store, Dundalk
Nov 27 Fri – Wyvern Lingo support – Kavanaghs Bar & Venue, Portlaoise
Nov 28 Sat – O Emperor support – Roisin Dubh, Galway
Nov 30 Mon – Trout Records Showcase – The Shacklewell Arms, London
Dec 3 Thu – O Emperor support – The Pavilion, Cork