Who? Angus Stone (vocals/guitar), 21, and older sister Julia, 23 (piano/vocals) hail from Sydney. The Aussie rock duo, who also get a little help from drummer Mitchell Connelly and bassist Clay Mcdonald, have already made splash down under and across the pond with their debut EP, the cinematic indie folk dressed Chocolates & Cigarettes, available now via iTunes. Their proper studio full-length A Book Like This, co-produced by Travis' Fran Healy, is slated for a fall 2008 release in the U.S.

What's the Deal? Despite their young age, Angus & Julia Stone are mature enough to let their sophisticated lyrics and string-plucked melodies take the forefront on Chocolates & Cigarettes -- a delightful six-song set, which was partially recorded in their Mom's living room. Julia's polished vocals hum like the Cranes' Alison Shaw on hypnotic "Private Lawns," while Angus' grounded whimsy, especially poignant on "Mango Tree" recalls Neutral Milk Hotel without the saws. Fans of Elliott Smith and Nick Drake should swoon for "Babylon," replete with warm acoustic guitars, lilting arrangements, and thankfully wistful words.

Fun Fact: "The Beast," included on A Book Like This, is featured on Natalie Portman's iTunes Celebrity Playlist, benefiting FINCA, an anti-poverty organization. 

Now Hear This:
Angus & Julia Stone - "Paper Aeroplane" DOWNLOAD MP3

On the Web:
Angus & Julia Stone at MySpace
angusandjuliastone.com

Talk: What's your vice? Chocolates or cigarettes?