Through Low Light and Trees V2/Co-Op***

It's no surprise that Katherine Blamire and Jessica Davies met in their school choir; the duo have the kind of intuitive musical rapport that's only developed through years of friendship. As Smoke Fairies, they've already recorded with Jack White in Nashville and caught the ear of musicians such as Richard Hawley. Their debut is a stark, pagan affair of eerie folk songs, tightly coiled harmonies and minimal instrumentation that recalls The Unthanks, Kate Bush and even PJ Harvey in places. Yet, as stirring as tracks such as Hotel Roomand Summer Fadesare, at times the pair's gentle pace turns lacklustre and their hypnotic rhythms become a touch samey. Smoke is all well and good when it comes to mystery and intrigue, but a touch of contrasting fieriness would make this impressive debut truly indispensable. See smokefairies.com

Download tracks: Hotel Room, Summer Fades