Noah and the Whale

The London-based pop group Noah and the Whale -- originally comprised of Charlie Fink (vocals, guitar, harmonica, ukulele), Tom Hobden (fiddle), Urby (harmonium, bass), Laura Marling (backing vocals), and Doug Fink (drums) -- released their first single, "Five Years Time," on the Young and Lost Club label in September 2007. With momentum going strong from that release and a positive response to the band's live show, Noah and the Whale released single number two, "2 Bodies, 1 Heart," in January 2008. The bandmates were soon signed to a major-label deal and began working on their debut album. The summery, pastoral Peaceful, the World Lays Me Down was released in September 2008, followed one year later by The First Days of Spring. The latter album dealt heavily with Charlie Fink's failed relationship with Marling, who did not appear on any of the tracks, and garnered praise for its cinematic sound. ~ Chris True, All Music Guide