We led today with British sister-group The Staves (see below), but would be remiss to not add on Swedish sister-duo First Aid Kit whose recent songs and album (Stay Gold) have rightfully and repeatedly been appearing on the Best of 2014 lists.  We have loved this duo for years, but this year they took their recorded game to another level with Stay Gold.  It’s a little-bit folky and a little-bit country, and hits all of our alt-country sweet spots while managing to be everything to most other people.  First Aid Kit have added to their plethora of breath-taking live performances of late.   Check out below their recent performances on Ellen (last Friday), on Conan (earlier this month), and KEXP.  And if you don’t own Stay Gold, the time is now.