Rachel Unthank & The Winterset was originated by sisters Rachel and Becky Unthank. After performing as a folky vocal duo during their youth, the duo added pianist Belinda O’Hooley and viola player Jackie Oates in 2004 to officially commence as the Winterset. Their traditional sounds of their 2005 debut, CRUEL SISTER, garnered significant attention from UK press. However, it was 2007’s THE BAIRNS that catapulted them to cult stardom. The record was nominated for a prestigious Mercury Prize (alongside the likes of Radiohead), and attracted devout praise by everyone from Antony of Antony & The Johnsons to Robert Wyatt. Both O’Hooley and Oates departed amongst some controversy, but have been replaced by Stef Conner and Niopha Keegan, respectively, and the group continues to tour and record amongst building critical acclaim and public recognition.