Young Pilgrims

**Young Pilgrims** are a Philadelphia-based indie folk duo formed in 2013 by lifelong friends Chris Ryan and Mikey Cantrell. Known for their warm, acoustic-driven sound and introspective lyrics, the pair blend Americana storytelling with modern indie rock vibes, creating music that feels both nostalgic and fresh. They cut their teeth DIY-style, recording early tracks like "We're Young Pilgrims" and "Canal Tripping" in home studios, eventually gaining traction with their 2014 debut EP. Their songs often explore themes of youth, wanderlust, and small-town life, with local Philly references (like the Schuylkill River in "Canal Tripping") adding personal flair.

Over the years, Young Pilgrims have become staples of the East Coast indie circuit, sharing stages with acts like The Front Bottoms and Modern Baseball. Tracks like the anthemic "Rufio" and the twangy "Hall of Meat" showcase their knack for pairing earnest, harmony-rich vocals with gritty, relatable storytelling. Whether they’re riffing on skatepark nostalgia or existential growing pains, their music feels like a late-night chat with old friends—unpretentious, heartfelt, and deeply human.