Croeso! Welcome to our monthly roundup of new Welsh music. Here, CLASH examines the finest recent releases from up-and-coming Welsh artists. In this particularly genre-blending edition of the column, we're spotlighting an array of outstanding new releases by relatively new Welsh acts, ranging from skillful sampledelica and melodic black metal to ultra-modern UK rap, an emo/alt-rock fusion, and more!
Before we dive in, here's a brief overview of significant happenings in Wales and the Welsh music scene during February. Earlier in the month, several events for Welsh Language Music Day took place throughout the UK, including a Welsh-language concert in London organized by DIY magazine and a show in Cardiff where Adwaith appeared on The One Show. Additionally, the lineups for this year’s Clwb Creative Cymru events were announced, slated for St. David’s Day at Shoreditch Arts Centre. February also welcomed the announcement of a new Cardiff-based label, Grwndi Records, which will represent some fantastic acts such as Mellt and Em Koko. Swansea hosted its annual Swansea House Party arena event, headlined by CVC, with all proceeds benefiting the Music Venue Trust. Staying in Swansea, the free festival Gwyl Tawe revealed an impressive lineup for its June iteration.
On a more somber note, there was troubling news regarding arts collectives Tactile Bosch, Umbrella, and SHIFT, who were being compelled to vacate yet another space. After years of establishing a home for experimental art and performance, the harsh decisions of those in power are forcing them out of their basement location in the Capitol Centre. We hope they can find a new space soon.
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Don Leisure – ‘Tyrchu Sain’
Let’s begin with something extraordinary. As part of the pioneering Welsh label Sain's effort to digitize their extensive back catalog, Cardiff beatmaker Don Leisure was invited to explore this discography (the title translates to 'Digging Sain') and create a collection of sample-based reinterpretations. ‘Tyrchu Sain’ features contributions from Don and renowned Welsh collaborators like Gruff Rhys, Carwyn Ellis, members of Boy Azooga, and various other guests. This vibrant sampledelica album deconstructs over fifty years of Welsh musical history, perfectly aligning with Sain’s innovative spirit and the long-standing psychedelic tendencies of Welsh music. More details can be found in CLASH's interview with Don.
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Adwaith – ‘Solas’
It feels strange to include Adwaith here, as the Carmarthen trio is arguably the biggest Welsh-language band in history, consistently selling out shows across the UK and being the only act to win the Welsh Music Prize twice. Nevertheless, they remain proudly indie (signed to the esteemed Welsh label Libertino Records) and exemplify how imaginative and accessible Welsh alternative music can be.
Their third album ‘Solas’ is an expansive work; a double album (they are the first female Welsh band to ever release a double album) filled with catchy and lively rock songs. Tracks like ‘Addo’ and ‘MWY’ effortlessly transcend the language barrier and will linger in your mind for days. It’s Adwaith’s universe, and we are merely living (and dancing) within it.
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The Nightmares – ‘Fire In Heaven’
From one Welsh lineage to another. Newport’s The Nightmares showcase a meticulously crafted aesthetic that pays homage to the country’s emo roots, shifting from post-hardcore to gothic rock’s romantic fatalism, with hints of noughties indie vibes reminiscent of Death Cab For Cutie and Bright Eyes, along with influences from Welsh legends Los Campesinos!.
The five-piece’s debut album ‘Fire In Heaven’ (released through Venn Records, currently on a roll) is abundant in American vocal stylings, dramatic sentiments, and captivating energy, enough to inspire numerous millennial ex-emos to rediscover their eyeliner and belt out lyrics like from “Hell Is Going To Happen,” such as “you tore my heart in two/a piece for me a piece for you.”
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Tbo – ‘Mixed Emotions’
The South Walian rap scene is thriving right now. Newport’s Lemfreck was rightfully awarded the 2024 Welsh Music Prize, while artists such as Mace The Great, Luke RV, Figo, Razkid, and many others are excelling, supported by Larynx Entertainment and the recently revitalized MOBO-focused venue, The New Moon.
Twenty-year-old Cardiff-based Tbo appears to have the talent needed to rise to the top of this vibrant scene. His debut EP ‘Mixed Emotions’ is a seamless collection of UK rap/drill tracks, each imbued with insight and emotion. ‘Wondering’ showcases impressive self-reflection, ‘Late at Night’ highlights his vocal abilities, while ‘Shutdown’ delivers a high-energy anthem. It’s a well-rounded and engaging introduction.
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Ofnus – ‘Valediction’
Wales is
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Croeso! We warmly welcome you to our monthly roundup of new Welsh music. In this segment, CLASH highlights the top recent releases from up-and-coming talent in Wales.