Possibly the guitarist's best album to date...
17 · 09 · 2025
Welsh-born and based in Brighton, guitarist Gwenifer Raymond is truly a unique talent. In her performances and across her previous two albums, she has cultivated a distinctly physical sound, an assault on the six strings that brings the John Fahey legacy into a new era. Her new album, ‘Last Night I Heard The Dog Star Bark,’ marks a concentrated comeback, showcasing some of her finest songwriting and some of her most lyrical guitar work.
What makes Gwenifer Raymond such an intriguing guitarist is her skill in blending the Primitive style with external influences. For instance, the opening track ‘Banjo Players Of Aleph One’ combines an Americana soundscape with a bout of drone, entrancing listeners with its intensity.
The track ‘Jack Parsons Blues’ is driven by her powerful thumb technique, while the comparatively relaxed ‘Champion Ivy’ plays with a variety of tones, lighter in touch yet just as precise.
‘Bliws Afon Taf’ pays tribute to her Welsh heritage, with spacious notes that evoke the surrounding landscapes – could the main melody also nod to ‘Norwegian Wood’? ‘Bonfire Of The Billionaires’ lives up to its provocative title, and songs like ‘Dreams Of Rhiannon’s Birds’ create a richly Impressionistic atmosphere, complete with flowing slide guitar.
The lively ragtime of ‘Cattywomp’ further broadens the album’s range, while the expansive title track allows Gwenifer Raymond to truly express herself and unleash her voice through her instrument.
Concluding with ‘One Day You’ll Lie Here But Everything Will,’ this album pushes the boundaries of guitar expression; it honors her influences while exploring personal artistic territories. ‘Last Night I Heard The Dog Star Bark’ serves as a guidepost.
8/10
Words: Robin Murray
—
Join us on WeAre8 for insights into global cultural events. Follow Clash Magazine HERE as we navigate through clubs, concerts, interviews, and photo shoots. Get exclusive backstage access and see our world as the excitement unfolds.
Subscribe to the Clash mailing list for the latest news in music, fashion, and film.
Joviale created their first album, 'Mount Crystal,' following an enlightening journey to a peak in Chamonix with producer Jkarri. We talk about the beginnings of the
Clash will hold a special party at The Great Escape's First Fifty event on November 13th. This London event features some fantastic independent music venues.
Yazmin Lacey has released a new single titled 'Wallpaper'. The songwriter is admired for both her vocal talent and her powerful songwriting skills, with Yazmin Lacey
In June of last year, Lola Young launched her debut album, ‘This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway’, propelling her into the limelight of pop music with its victorious first single,
.jpg)
Jawnino has released a new single titled 'LivFlare (broadway market).' The London rapper stands out in the underground scene, collaborating with various producers to cultivate
Former Woman's Hour guitarist William Burgess is back with his new project, Person People. The musician, who was raised in Kendal, was integral to the beloved
Gwenifer Raymond, a guitarist from Wales currently based in Brighton, is a unique talent. In her live performances and through her two previous albums, she has cultivated a noticeably tactile sound.