My love affair with theatre began a few years ago with Under Milk Wood. Theatr Clwyd’s production of Dylan Thomas’ most famous work was a revelation, a conversion experience that has led me to take a seat for many a show since. Over the last year or so, such journeys have become less frequent. LifeContinue reading “Eye of the Storm – Theatr na nOg @ Pontio”
Author Archives: Gareth Williams
Pavilion – Theatr Clwyd
Emily White’s Pavilion is a sharp and witty ode to small town Wales. Described as a modern day Under Milk Wood, it is an acute observation of life in a once proud, increasingly hopeless community. Whilst we may read the childhood memories of Dylan Thomas’ days of being ‘young and easy under the apple boughs’Continue reading “Pavilion – Theatr Clwyd”
Emily Mae Winters – High Romance
High Romance from Emily Mae Winters is an album full of delights. Just when you think you know her sound, she will surprise you with something completely different. The first song, ‘Come Live in my Heart & Pay No Rent’, is exactly what I expected. As such, I was preparing for a record full ofContinue reading “Emily Mae Winters – High Romance”
Tennessee Twin – Tips in a Jar EP
Tips in a Jar, the debut EP from Tennessee Twin, is one of my surprise finds of 2019. This acoustic duo from Cambridge have released a set of delicate tracks that rest gently on the listening ear. I couldn’t help but draw comparisons with Alison Krauss & Union Station such is the tender charm ofContinue reading “Tennessee Twin – Tips in a Jar EP”
Lisa Redford – Edge of Love EP
Having recently spent time listening to the songs of Nanci Griffith, I can’t help but feel a sort of kinship between her and Lisa Redford. The latter’s most recent EP ‘Edge of Love’ is my first encounter with the Norwich-based singer-songwriter. And her mix of folk and country reminds me of Griffith’s style. In particular,Continue reading “Lisa Redford – Edge of Love EP”
Clara Bond – Crown EP
First, there was Unfinished Business. Then came Better When I’m Drunk, followed by Dead Ends & Detours. Now, Clara Bond joins Katy Hurt, Twinnie, and Kezia Gill respectively in competing for UK Country EP of 2019. Crown is a sumptuous blend of countrified lyrics and pop sensibility that is shot through with soft rock. ThisContinue reading “Clara Bond – Crown EP”
Morganway – Debut Album Review
Morganway have been making quite the impression on the live circuit in recent months. Such has been the impact of their live performances that their debut album has become highly anticipated. And boy, does it deliver. Covered in countrified Americana, with flecks of folk, bits of the blues, and rock running right through, this isContinue reading “Morganway – Debut Album Review”
Cabaret Pontio with Gareth Bonello, Georgia Ruth & Toby Hay
Considering they had never played together before, Gareth Bonello, Georgia Ruth and Toby Hay seemed like a long-established trio. Their first gig as a three-piece was certainly an enjoyable one. Coming together from Cardiff, Ceredigion, and Rhayader respectively, these three folk musicians brought real warmth to what was a pretty wet night in Bangor. WithContinue reading “Cabaret Pontio with Gareth Bonello, Georgia Ruth & Toby Hay”
Danny McMahon – Boys Cry Too EP
Boys Cry Too by Danny McMahon is an EP of two halves. Not that there is anything wrong with songs ‘Everything’ and ‘When I See You’. Dealing with relationships, the first offers an anthemic chorus that is very reminiscent of a Thomas Rhett single. The second is a slow tempo ballad that is also notableContinue reading “Danny McMahon – Boys Cry Too EP”
Interview with Bryony Sier
There were so many artists to enjoy last week at Focus Wales, one of the nation’s premier music showcase festivals. Among them, a host of Welsh country and Americana artists and bands, most of whom I had the opportunity to see and hear over the course of the three days. And from the psychedelic countryContinue reading “Interview with Bryony Sier”