Court Yard Hounds Video Exclusive

They're "country music's most recognizable sidewomen," the familiar faces who founded the Dixie Chicks ... with voices only heard on harmonies. Now, sisters Emily Robison and Martie Maguire are moving to a place they haven't been in years -- center stage, where the mic is all theirs. Court Yard Hounds is the name of the Texas natives' new duo, with new music due in May ... and without Chicks lead singer Natalie Maines.

"I don't think I could have done this five or 10 years ago with Martie," Emily confesses. "I would have been too timid, too shy ... Now, I think, if some people don't like it, that's fine. Even if we have just 10 percent of the people who reacted to us before, or only new fans, whatever it is ... we can make something of that."

The Court Yard Hounds have shared with The Boot an exclusive video that gives fans an intimate look into the start of their new venture. Check it out below, then visit their official website to pre-order the duo's debut album. A pre-order allows you to download four album tracks immediately and to jump in line for exclusive ticket offers for their spring tour.