The Fell

Bosky and fecund, the second album from Northumberland's Brothers Gillespie is steeped in the gently lilting folk sensibility and travelling-man observation of the natural world that marks the whole scene encompassing new folk and eco-activism. Naturally enough, the brothers' music evokes comparisons with Sam Lee – the nightingale-stalking fireside folkie of the East London scene, whom they have supported on tour. There is also more than a hint of The Waterboys' mystical Celtic balladry, such as on the plaintive whistle airs of ‘Coventina's Daughter’.

The self-penned numbers have an almost pre-industrial quality, with a hint of American country. The brothers' finger-picking guitar, fiddle and mandolin are complemented by Siannie Moodie's clarsach (Celtic harp) and percussion from Tim Lane. There's also a spare, simple take on the traditional ‘The Road to Dundee’ and a cover of Michelle Shocked's ‘Blackberry Blossom’.

The duo's sound has a consciously cultivated archaic sound and turn of phrase. For anyone who remembers a time when both folkie sensibilities and eco-activism were distinctly uncool, this fresh young sound is striking, stirring and hopeful in its idealism.