A round-up of our favourite fresh finds this Summer
After what feels like a whirlwind of a summer, it’s now time to refocus and re-energise and get ready for those comforting sounds this winter. Despite our efforts in highlighting the next wave of Welsh artists, there are a select few that regretfully go under-the-radar. To put that right and to wash away those summer blues, here’s a round-up of our favourite hidden gems.
heddlu: ‘cantref’
Back creating music after a life-changing fight against hearing loss, heddlu is the pseudonym of former Estrons founder, Rhodri Daniel. After years of touring the live circuit, Rhodri was diagnosed with Hyperacusis - a condition which left him unable to be in the same space as others. Having written the tracks during his recovery, ‘cantref’ is a transfixing, concept album that’s centred around a fictional character who finds themselves washed out to sea, descending on 'Cantref Gwaelod', a mythological sunken Welsh city. Along with standout single ‘Daw Eto Haul’, ‘Mouth Goes Dry’ is one of many album-highlights that creates an ambient, translucent soundscape - urging one to reconnect. Inspired by wild places, trauma and beauty, ‘cantref’ makes for a suffocating listen that leads us on an elusive journey of internal frustration and fanciful escapism.
Achlysurol: ‘Caerdydd yn Mis Awst’
Landing in mid-August was Achlysurol’s jangly pop tune ‘Caerdydd yn Mis Awst’ - the third single taken from their forthcoming debut LP. The trio - composed of lead-singer Aled Emyr, guitarist Ifan Emyr and drummer Ifan Williams - seem to have picked up where they left off as their latest offering follows in the footsteps of April’s alluring double single ‘Golau Gwyrdd / Sinema II’. Drowning out its gloomy narrative with an infectious chorus, ‘Caerdydd yn Mis Awst’ is an ode to wishing you were somewhere, or indeed someone else.
Nia Wyn: ‘Magical Thinking’
Llandudno-raised and London-based artist Nia Wyn is busy making waves with her dream-like EP ‘Magical Thinking’. Released via Unity Records shortly after her set at Glastonbury, the six-song soundtrack blends silky-smooth hooks with evocative storytelling - all oozing in soulful solace. Flooded with therapeutic melodies and muzzy undertones, the follow-up to her 2021 EP addresses sexuality, mental health and her own sense of belonging.
Georgia Ruth: ‘Kingfisher’
Easing us into the autumn months with soothing, tender threads is Aberystwyth’s singer songwriter Georgia Ruth. Inspired by conversations Georgia had during the pandemic, leading single ‘25 Minutes’ captures the EP’s rich intimacy as the self-titled centrepiece is a slow-burner, decorated in dreamy brass. Arguably Georgia’s warmest work yet, time stands still in the fuse of folk, jazz and electro.
Static Inc: ‘Brithgofion’
Self-labelled as the musical offspring to Cardiff’s “concrete jungle”, Static Inc reverts to old-school alt-rock in their latest EP as ‘Brithgofion’ is a slippery continuum of both chaos and tranquillity. The sounds may be proggy and raw, but the feelings they evoke grounds you throughout.
L E M F R E C K: ‘Play with Silver’
Flipping grime and R&B with gritty, breezy bars is Newport’s native producer, writer and artist - L E M F R E C K. Always driven by narrative, his latest single sees an overlap in influence as his incisive delivery strikes an elysian tone. Regularly experimenting with sound and retention, ‘Play with Silver‘ is a must-add for your September soundtrack.
Droja: ‘Phantoms’
Hailing from Cardiff, Droja is the musical moniker of electro producer Evan Droja. Debuting on August 05 via Midtide Records, ‘Phantoms’ is loaded with a continuous groove - drawing comparisons to the likes of Aphex Twin, Brian Eno and Moby. Forming its singularity from its simplicity, we hope this is only the start for Droja.
Los Blancos: ‘Chwaraewr Gorau (Yr Ail Dim) / Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’
Los Blancos are no new kids on the block, however their long-lusted-for latest singles are a welcome addition to anyone’s collection. Taking a slight diversion from their signature slacker sound, the newly released double A-side is only a glimpse of the band’s fresh ideas. Led by bruising guitars, sticky basslines and charming harmonies, what’s not to like in Libertino’s latest release?
Listen to our favourite fresh finds here:
