Swedish singer-songwriter Emma Svensson is continuing the cosy Christmas feeling into 2023 with her new single, ‘Runs in the Family’. She captures the closeness of family and the continuation of long-standing traditions by telling of childhood trips to the mountains which she is now undertaking with her own kids. She does so through strong imageryContinue reading “Emma Svensson – ‘Runs in the Family’”
Author Archives: Gareth Williams
2022: A Personal Review in 10 Songs
In this personal review of 2022, I select ten songs by ten artists that have made a particular impression on him over the last twelve months. “I realise that there are some striking omissions, like Ingrid Andress, Kelsea Ballerini, and Elles Bailey, to name but three, but the songs and artists that I’ve chosen (andContinue reading “2022: A Personal Review in 10 Songs”
Katie Nicholas – ‘Feather’ EP, Launch Show
There is genuine surprise from Katie Nicholas as she greets the crowd at the launch of her EP ‘Feather’. The Scouse singer-songwriter can’t quite believe that “you guys are actually at a gig to hear songs written by me”. It is nothing short of a pleasure to be here though in the hallowed space ofContinue reading “Katie Nicholas – ‘Feather’ EP, Launch Show”
Bryony Sier – Picture Not So Perfect
Bryony Sier has entered early into the festive season with a faithful adaptation of a Christmas novella. ‘Picture Not So Perfect’ is titled after Stephanie O’Neil’s debut publication, and retells the story of protagonist Holly in charming detail. It is essentially a love story in which Holly, after losing her mother at a young ageContinue reading “Bryony Sier – Picture Not So Perfect”
The Goudies – Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (Cover)
One of the unexpected highlights at this year’s British Country Music Festival was a cover of the theme tune to classic sitcom ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. Wales-based duo The Goudies fashioned a completely new take on this beloved song, with surprisingly successful results. Its popularity with live audiences is perhaps one of the reasonsContinue reading “The Goudies – Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (Cover)”
Amy-Jo – Coming Close
There’s great irony in the title of Amy-Jo’s single ‘Coming Close’. That’s because the Morecambe-based singer/songwriter has struck gold with this, an instant hit that is far from the “silver medal” that she talks about in the chorus. The uncomplicated musical arrangement allows the song to really shine, as it’s the lyrics and Amy-Jo’s vocalContinue reading “Amy-Jo – Coming Close”
Introducing Olivia Lynn
The latest single from Olivia Lynn has marked her as one-to-watch on the UK Country scene. ‘Ain’t It a Shame’ is an empowering song full of attitude and superb put-downs as Olivia tears down the men who seek to control female opinion and fashion. In this interview, she speaks with passion and enthusiasm about herContinue reading “Introducing Olivia Lynn”
Rebecca Richards – Unluckiest of Hearts
Rebecca Richards has felt all the emotions bar one on debut single ‘Unluckiest of Hearts’. The Welsh singer has “felt sad… bad… fury… [and] boiling mad / but I’ve never felt love” on a track that laments the fact through jazz-infused blues. One can picture her in the corner of a smoky bar in theContinue reading “Rebecca Richards – Unluckiest of Hearts”
Dal y Mellt – Episode 1 Review
It could be that Dal y Mellt is S4C’s most ambitious drama to date. Episode one certainly promised much from a series that looks set to deliver. Adapted from the hit novel by Iwan ‘Iwcs’ Roberts, the narrative weaves mystery, comedy and crime seamlessly to create a world that is universally recognisable whilst being inherentlyContinue reading “Dal y Mellt – Episode 1 Review”
Elin Grace – Bee Without Wings
One of the most exciting talents coming through this year’s Forté project is surely 18-year-old Elin Grace. The singer-songwriter from Mid Wales has just released an EP of sheer brilliance. ‘Bee Without Wings’ may only be her debut release but it demonstrates a maturity far beyond her years. Lyrically complex, sonically fascinating, vocally mesmerising, theContinue reading “Elin Grace – Bee Without Wings”