Painted Sky

^{Saturday | Brass Castle Stage}

Painted Sky have only recently emerged onto the UK folk scene, but they have already made a lasting impression with their progressive acoustic sound. Original material thoughtfully balances the duo’s roots in traditional English music. They seamlessly blend tunes from further afield too, from the complex rhythms of Eastern Europe to the stomping fiddle tunes of Quebec, to create a distinct and borderless synthesis of contemporary folk. 

Siblings George Brandon (guitar/vocal) and Holly Brandon (fiddle/vocal) have been playing together for as long as they can remember. Recently both have worked on independent projects, with George performing solo and Holly, perhaps best known for being one third of transatlantic folk band, The Magpies. But the siblings are always drawn back to each other’s playing and their lifelong musical history is reflected in tight-knit instrumentals and harmonies. Their songs are characterised by honest vocals and timeless storytelling, underpinned by driving rhythms. Whilst their exquisite instrumentals weave delicate finger-picking guitar and soaring fiddle with a dynamic energy.  

The duo have played live shows around the UK, with festival highlights including performances at Towersey Festival, Beardy Folk Festival, Edlefest and Thame Town Music Festival. Following the release of their debut EP - Dawn - in 2020, Painted Sky are set to release their debut album in Spring 2024.

‘Terribly splendid’ - RnR Magazine
‘Anthemic’ - Folking.com
‘International folk sound, lovely harmonies … really like that!’ - BBC Music Introducing, York
‘A quality act in our midst’ - Northern Sky
‘Finely showcases the talents of this superb, up and coming duo. I don’t often give five stars to anything but this EP definitely gets five stars from me.’ - Folk Roots List