No Oil Paintings

Born in Belfast in late 2013, No Oil Paintings is the musical synergy of Chris Kelly (lead vocals, guitar), twin brothers Sean (vocals, guitar, 5-string banjo) & James Doone (vocals, bass guitar), and George Sloan (vocals, drums).

With a variety of influences from rock to outlaw country the boys have grown together and developed the No Oil Paintings sound – raucous alternative guitar & banjo-driven folk, with an edge of darkness. The band strive to use typical folk instrumentation accompanied with strong four-part male harmonies, to create something a little more wild than the music often associated with the genre today.

The band’s powerful original set have seen them securing NI festival slots including that of Open House Festival’s house band (2014-15), Stendhal Festival of Art (2014-16), Sunflower Festival (Moot Stage headline 2015, Campfire Stage headline 2016), Portstewart Songwriter’s Festival (2016 headliner), Ards Guitar Festival (2016). In 2015, the band sold out the Belfast Barge for their self-promoted EP launch gaining favourable reviews from Folk & Tumble, and gig reviews by Gigging NI for the eponymously named debut record.

No Oil Paintings have been acknowledged in the Irish News as Sunflower Festival’s most recommended band, have undertaken live sessions on Radio Ulster (Lynette Faye, Gerry Kelly), Radio Foyle (Mark Patterson), and U105 (Johnny Hero) and received extensive airplay from all.

Having recently recorded their 2nd EP with producer, Phil D’Alton, No Oil Paintings are prepared for a summer release, accompanying tour and a busy festival season.”

“Think less Earl Scruggs and more Jack White.” – Our Back Yard Festival.

“For serious fans of country and folk music, No Oil Paintings are a must-see.” – Folk & Tumble.