music news from around cardiff

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Green Man Festival 2010
Early Bird tickets Go On Sale

Early bird tickets for next year’s Green Man Festival go on sale 10th November priced at £100 (Students £99 & teenagers £50). The festival takes place 20th – 22nd August and looks set to be the UK festival highlight of next year. For more information go to:

http://www.thegreenmanfestival.co.uk/

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Top 50 Albums of 2009.

So here it is the full list of our favourite albums of the year. These are the ones we have played and enjoyed the most and if you haven’t already got them you should! Many have appeared on other lists elsewhere, which must mean something, but we are also really excited about the Lightning Dust album and feel this has been overlooked by many. So if you by only one album with Granny’s gift voucher over the Christmas/New Year period go and buy this one. You will not regret it.

Animal Collective set the bar very high at the start of the year and gained momentum as the year progressed to become not only one of the best albums of the year but one that will be having an influence and an impact for years to come. Elsewhere Canadian band Malajube made the Polaris prize shortlist and will hopefully make it to these shores in 2010. We also saw the Neil Young archives finally start to appear after being promised for over 2 decades – it was worth the wait. The penultimate list of 11-20 follow next week.

It was good to have so much good Welsh music this year. Just a few of them in this section including more quality from our favourite troubadour – Sweet Baboo, another fine album to add to the Super Furry Animals discography and great to see a fine Welsh rock band emerging in the form of the Joy Formidable. 21-30 follow next week. Any guesses??

Yes it’s that time of year again a time to reflect and look back a the year that is drawing to a close and do that futile but fun thing of selecting some of the best music we have heard this year. This time around we thought we would keep you guessing and reveal 10 albums per week leading up to Christmas. So here we go 50 - 41.

Guitar virtuoso Gareth Pearson has signed to American independent label Candyrat Records whose roster includes Andy McKee and Don Ross. This is a double reason to celebrate as Gareth is the first non-American to be signed to the label. His first album is due early next year. Newsoundwales is working with Gareth on an event taking place in May 2010. More news to follow soon…..

http://www.myspace.com/garethpearson

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Ellie Goulding one of the acts being tipped for big things in 2010 is setting out on a 17 date UK tour beginning in Bristol 25th March and ending at Cardiff Barfly 17th April. Goulding was brought up in Wales and has already released a highly acclaimed single ‘Under the Sheets’ and her debut album is due in the early part of 2010.

http://www.myspace.com/elliegoulding

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Alexander the Great

Cardiff band Jimi Alexander & the Satellites have been named as the newsoundwales Emerging Act of the Year. The band managed to beat off stiff competition from the likes of Kadesha, Denuo & Right Hand Left Hand. The band released their debut album ‘Burn a Little Brighter’ earlier this year to great critical acclaim including highly influential Maverick magazine who said “If they continue to produce albums like this, Jimi Alexander & the Satellites will find they have made a wider impact, growing an almighty fan base, Even Hollywood actor Kiefer Sutherland has claimed he is a lover of the new album. Burn a little Brighter is worth very penny.”

Despite the competition we had no doubts in making our decision. Jimi Alexander & the Satellites are an excellent live band who combine energy, emotion together with some brilliant songs. Their album is superb and we fully expect their success to spread far beyond Wales during 2010.

Jimi Alexander responded to the news of the award by saying: ‘When we heard about this we were really chuffed. There are some great bands and singers around Wales at the moment so to be singled out is pretty cool.’

Mr Wolf’s in Bristol 6th December.

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Everyone’s a Winner

This is a fantastic idea and one that is guaranteed to produce fascinating results. The concept is called ‘Rock Lottery’ and is simple. At 10am on December 5th, the names of 25 local musicians are thrown into a hat. A draw will be made at random, pulling out drummers, guitarists, singers and whatever-the-hell-else is in there to form a bunch of completely new bands. Each of these new bands is then locked in their own rehearsal room, where the brief is simple. Write a 4 to 5 song set of completely new, original music. In the evening the action moves to Dempseys (opposite Cardiff Castle) from 8pm, where the newly formed bands will take it in turns to play the fruits of their labour.

Entrance will be £5 with all proceeds from the night will be donated to The Paul Ward Memorial Fund, which provides funding for research into The Wilms Tumour (a rare Cancerous tumour that mainly affects young children) at The Institute of Cancer Research.

Bands taking part include:

Truckers Of Husk
Threatmantics
The Death Of Her Money
Zwolf
Right Hand Left Hand
Evils
Hunters
The Victorian English Gentlemans Club
Drone
The Gentle Good
Hail! The planes
K U T O S I S
Denuo

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Major tour for Los Campesinos

Los Campesinos have announced a major tour to promote their new album ‘Romance is Boring’ due to be released in February. The tour includes one date in Wales at Central Station in Wrexham 11th February which is also the opening night of the tour.

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Green Man Festival 2010
Early Bird tickets Go On Sale

http://www.thegreenmanfestival.co.uk/

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La Roux comes in for the kill

La Roux has announced details of her ‘Gold’ UK tour next year including a date at Cardiff University 6th May. Tickets are on sale 30th October. Meanwhile ‘Quicksand’ is being released as a single 23rd November.

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One of Australia’s greatest exports The Temper Trap have announced a UK tour for 2010 including a date at Cardiff University 2nd May. The band’s debut album ‘Conditions’ has achieved almost universal critical acclaim and made the Australian top 10 when it was released in June.

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Los Campesinos! or as they were called in a recent Gate Arts Centre programme ‘Los Campinosios’ have a new album out 1st February entitled ‘Romance is Boring’. According to the band the album: “is a record about the death and decay of the human body, sex, lost love, mental breakdown, football and, ultimately, that there probably isn’t a light at the end of the tunnel."

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Another new venue for Cardiff

Next month sees the opening of a brand new venue in the capital, as Cardiff Arts Institute opens its doors for the first time at 29 Park Place in Cardiff. The Institute will host an eclectic blend of live music, club nights, arts events and food. Designed by Welsh sisters and St Martin’s graduates Gabrielle and Becky Kelly, the team responsible for Milgi, Cardiff Arts Institute intends to provide the capital with a new vision for what a social club can be; working with artists, promoters, musicians and other creatives to establish a space in which the culture and opportunities that Cardiff has can flourish. Cardiff Arts Institute opens with an invitation-only event on Thursday 5th November, which features live music from Cate Le Bon and The Joy Formidable, as well as DJ sets from Casper C (Bloggers Delight), Wonky Disco (Kruger) and The Institute DJs.

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St David’s Hall in Cardiff is launching a series of live events under the banner of BLAS* on it’s Level 3 stage. Kicking off with Audio Calm, Cuba Cuba & Whistling Biscuits on Tuesday 20th October and followed by Innercity Pirates, Tiger Please & Faliadau = Equations on Tuesday 10th November.

In something of a coup for Cardiff the ‘supergroup’ Monsters of Folk are playing the Coal Exchange in Cardiff 16th November. The band comprises of Conor Oberst, Jim James (My Morning Jacket), Mike Mogis (Bright Eyes) and M.Ward. Tickets are on sale now and available at Spillers.

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Wild Beasts Hooting & Howling @ the SWN

We are pleased and excited to announce that The Wild Beasts have been added as special guests for the SWN festival evening we are co-hosting with Gathered in Song at the Gate Arts Centre in Cardiff on Thursday 22nd October. The band has released two albums and has been receiving rave reviews for their most recent album Two Dancers

"Fascinating ... mixes being a high tenor with a countertenor ... going in and out of head sounds and chest sounds." (Dave Hill Musical Director of the Bach Choir)

Two Dancers is the sound of horny young urchins running amok through an insatiable widescreen soup of desire and wonders. Ladies and gentlemen, if you haven't twigged already, Wild Beasts are your new favourite band. (BBC Music)

Every song on Two Dancers reflects the meticulous intelligence of master stylists! (Mojo magazine)

The band will be joined at the Gate by a superb line up featuring Don’t Move, The Young Republic, The Irascibles, Hail! The Planes and Pete Lawrie. The SWN festival features over 100 bands and artists and runs from 22nd – 24th October at numerous venues throughout Cardiff. For more information go to www.swnfest.co.uk

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Globe’s Live Music License Revoked

The live music license for the Globe in Cardiff has been revoked following noise complaints from several local residents. The venue is set to remain open pending an appeal and further work to help soundproof the building. Although not yet open for a year the Globe has quickly established itself as one of the leading venues in the city and plugged some of the gap left when the Point closed. Bands that have already performed there include Efterklang, Jamie T, The Peth and King Cresosote.

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The Super Furry Animals will be appearing at the Coal Exchange 20th November as part of the Creation Records 25th anniversary celebrations. SFA, who were part of the Creation Records roster for a time, will be appearing with Mark Gardener former Ride singer.

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Canadian hardcore band Fucked Up have won this years Polaris Prize, the Canadian equivalent of the Mercury. The band fought off tough competition from the likes of Chad VanGaalen and the Great Lake Swimmers to win the $20,000 prize for their album ‘The Chemistry of Common Life’.

John Cale will be appearing in Cardiff for 2 nights in November. First up he will be taking part in a Q&A at this year’s Soundtrack Festival discussing his work on ‘American Psycho’ at Cineworld 6pm 20th November and the following night 21st November he will be appearing a the newly re-opened Coal Exchange. This will be a special evening that is under wraps but expect something he has never done before and may never do again!

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Developer’s loss is the music fan’s gain
The Coal Exchange is re-opening.

Two years ago the Coal Exchange closed as a music venue and was due to be developed by owners Macob. However, due to the recession those plans have been put on hold so the venue will be reopening in November as a live music venue. Mike Johnson previous music director at the venue is back on board and the first gig lined up at the 1000 capacity venue takes place 5th November with the Alabama 3.

www.coalexchange.co.uk

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Mott in Monmouth!

Legendary rock band Mott the Hoople are reforming after a 3 decade lay off and are due to perform at the must see gigs of the year in London in October. However, those gigs have been somewhat usurped as the band are now doing 2 warm up dates 25th & 26th September at the intimate 500 capacity Blake Theatre in Monmouth. The Hammersmith tickets are like gold dust so these will probably reach platinum status.

www.theblaketheatre.org/
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Free Album from Euros Childs

Euros Childs has made his new album ‘Son of Euro Child’ available as a free download at his website www.euroschilds.com he is touring to support the album including a Welsh date 22nd September at Smokeys (working men’s club), Rhondda.
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Seasick Steve will be making a rare appearance (his first?) at the Wales Millenium Centre in Cardiff 12th November. Steve releases a new album ‘Man From Another Time’ in October.

www.wmc.org.uk
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Rod Thomas moves towards the light

One of Wale’s brightest hopes has decided to call himself ‘Bright Light Bright Light’ from now on. There seem to be a variety reasons for this including some potential confusion with American singer Rob Thomas. Meanwhile Rod, sorry we mean Bright Light Bright Light has been busy remixing GLC and James Yuill and will be appearing a the SWN festival 22nd October at Chapter Arts Centre in Cardiff.

http://www.myspace.com/brightlightx2
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Daniel Johnston has cancelled his gig at the Gate in Cardiff due to take place 7th November. However, Ash have confirmed 2 Welsh dates on their forthcoming UK tour playing at TJ’s in Newport 6th November and Sin City in Swansea 12th November.
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If you want to be part of the Spillers Records 2010 calendar photo shoot head on down to the Museum steps in Cardiff on Sunday 6th September at 4.45 pm. Not forgetting to wear your Spillers Records Shop t-shirt of course!

http://www.spillersrecords.co.uk/
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newsoundwales links up with SWN

We are proud to announce that newsoundwales will be co-hosting a night during this year’s SWN festival on October 22nd at the Gate Arts Centre in Cardiff. Bands confirmed for the evening include The Young Republic and Don’t Move. There is also a major surprise act to be announced nearer the time and by major we mean one of the year’s brightest hopes and a band well worth seeing live.

Somewhat incredulously Bob Dylan next release on October 13th, his 47th album, is a collection of Christmas songs. The collection features ‘Little Drummer boy’ and ‘Winter Wonderland’ with all profits are going to various charities including Feeding America.

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Bowerbirds fly in for Welsh date

Following the release of their 2nd album ‘Upper Air’ the Bowerbirds will be appearing at Clwb Ifor Bach in Cardiff 29th October.
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Across The Borders – Americana Festival

A new partnership event has been announced between Bridgend County Borough Council Arts and Culture Service, Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council’s Cultural Services Department and Independent promoters Gathered In Song. The mini festival will take place at the Muni in Pontypridd and Grand Pavilion in Porthcawl 5-6th September.

Saturday 5 September 7.30pm.at The Muni Arts Centre
RICHMOND FONTAINE
THE WILLARD GRANT CONSPIRACY
PETER BRUNTNELL

Sunday 6th September 1.00pm – 11.00pm. @ The Grand Pavilion, Porthcawl
VETIVER
MAGNOLIA ELECTRIC CO.
ADEM
ALASDAIR ROBERTS
AIDAN MOFFAT AND THE BEST OFS
OHBIJOU

Punk veterans The Slits will be appearing at Clwb Ifor Bach in Cardiff 9th October and still feature 2 original members Ari Up and Tessa Pollitt. The band were at the forefront of punk between 1976-1982 and their releases inlcuded the classic album ‘Cut’.

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Gruff Rhys Launches ‘Irony Bored’

Gruff Rhys is setting up his one record label ‘Irony Bored’ to release music by local artists. First release is by Cate le Bon and will be out in October. However, don’t expect a (super) flurry of releases, this is just a part time occasional project.

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Mercury Prize Shortlist Announced

This year’s mercury prize shorltist has been revealed. No Welsh artists this year which is a missed opportunity, but there are some excellent albums on the list:

Glasvegas: Glasvegas
Bat For Lashes: Two Suns
Lisa Hannigan: Sea Sew
The Horrors: Primary Colours
Kasabian: West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Aslyum
The Invisible: The Invisible
Led Bib: Sensible Shoes
La Roux: La Roux
Friendly Fires: Friendly Fires
Sweet Billy Pilgrim: Twice Born Man
Speech DeBelle: Speech Therapy
Florence and the Machine: Lungs

The winner (Glasvegas??) will be announced 8th September.

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Fair Play for all

This year’s Fair Play Festival takes place at the Lansdowne Hotel in Canton, Cardiff 24th – 26th July and includes a bonanza of local (and further afield) musicians, artists, traders, comedians, poets, family's and party-goers alike. Last year’s festival raised over £1,000 for Charity with over 1000 punters attending. Day tickets are £2 with weekend tickets at the bargain rate of £5.

St Fagans National History Museum has invited six Guest Curators to create an exciting, different and new exhibition on pop music:

Lowri Johnston and Leusa Fflur – editors of the fanzine ‘Dim Ffwdanu’,

John Griffiths and Kevs Ford – musicians with dub reggae band Llwybr Llaethog)

They have each chosen objects that are important to them, from their own personal collection as well as the Museum’s collection, or produced by themselves, ranging from record covers, instruments and songs to t-shirts, videos and i-pods. Pop Peth is their exhibition, not the Museum’s, and can be viewed in Oriel 1 at St Fagans from 1 August to 10 January 2010. It is part of the Music 09 theme that aims to show the unique relationship between person, music, place and time, and reflect the influence that popular culture has on each and every one of us.

No it’s the Green Rooms! This exciting new venture is being launched in Treforest by Vick & Wayne Collins.

We wanted to set up a business that would give bands the opportunity to play live gigs, especially if it’s their first time. We decided the best way to go about it was to set up rehearsal rooms with a live showcase venue (licensed!) attached to them. We want to give rehearsing bands to chance to play live, and to encourage bands into Wales by providing a small venue. We also have a love of many types of music and are looking to set up small venue evenings hosting everything from acoustic, folk, jazz and rock. The business has been purpose built so the rehearsal rooms are fully sound proofed, also we provide equipment both in the rooms and in the live area both for musicians and DJ's.

Based in Treforest Industrial Estate (Pontypridd), The Green Rooms provides Rehearsal rooms and a live, licensed showcasing venue to upcoming and established bands and musicians.

Practice in the 4 fully soundproofed rehearsal rooms each with its own PA, drum kits and amps to hire.

Play - The Green Rooms fully incorporates a live venue lounge where rehearsing bands can play in front of live audiences whether it is the 100th time or just the first time.

Relax - Enjoy the fully licensed bar and relax listening to music on the comfy leather sofas.

http://thegreenroomsonline.co.uk (website coming soon)

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Arcade Fire Stringman at the Gate

The Arcade Fire string arranger is bringing his Final Fantasy project to the Gate in Cardiff 2nd August. Owen Pallett has written the string arrangements on Arcade Fire albums Funeral & Neon Bible and has toured extensively with the band. Final Fantasy is a side project and involves extensive use of looped violin samples.
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Hi Cardiff, how are you?

The legendary Daniel Johnston will be appearing at the Gate Arts Centre in Cardiff 7th November. Johnston began in the 1980s by making cassette copies of his songs and also made an early appearance on MTV. However, since 1990 he has had ongoing mental health issues which have had a significant impact on his life and work. His profile was raised by Kurt Cobain who frequently wore t-shirts with Daniel Johnston artwork. More recently he was the subject of a documentary ‘The Devil and Daniel Johnston’. Daniel Johnston is an erratic artist and is most probably a genius. His performances are always unforgettable and usually sell out so get your tickets now!

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Polaris Prize Nominees for 2009 Announced

Canada’s equivalent of the Mercury Prize have announced it’s shortlist for 2009. Nominees are:

Elliot BROOD – Mountain Meadows
Fucked Up – The Chemistry Of Common Life
Great Lake Swimmers – Lost Channels
Hey Rosetta! – Into Your Lungs (and around in your heart and on through your blood)
K’NAAN – Troubadour
Malajube – Labyrinthes
Metric – Fantasies
Joel Plaskett – Three
Chad VanGaalen – Soft Airplane
Patrick Watson – Wooden Arms

Chad VanGaalen is a hot favourite with NSW and Great Lake Swimmers and Elliott Brood are also worth investigating. The winner will be announced 21st September. In the meantime the Mercury Prize nominations for 2009 are due to be announced 21st July. Don’t be too surprised if the list includes Little Boots, La Roux and Glasvegas.

http://www.polarismusicprize.ca/

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The line up for this year’s Big Weekend has now been announced with loads of good bands performing and it’s all free!

Matthew Horne will be taking time off from filming the latest series of Gavin & Stacey to appear at Clwb Ifor Bach on Thursday 9th July undertaking DJ duties for the night. Horne is a big indie fan so expect to hear sounds from the likes of the Maccabees and Jack Penate.

http://www.clwb.net/
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Múm’s the Word

The experimental Icelandic band Múm (pronounced Moom) are set to make their Welsh debut at The Museum of Wales in Cardiff on Monday 17th August. Múm formed in 1997 and are an experimental Icelandic band whose music is characterized by soft vocals, electronic glitch beats and effects, and a variety of traditional and unconventional instruments. The band release a new album in August “Sing along to songs you don’t know”.

Tickets are on sale from wegottickets or Spillers Records (029) 2022 4905, Ticketline (029) 2023 0130 or www.seetickets.com

http://www.myspace.com/mumtheband

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Efterklang @ the Globe

One of Europe’s leading and most influential experimental bands will be appearing at the Globe 13th September with a likely support slot from Peter Broderick. For more information:

http://www.myspace.com/efterklang

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Sweet Baboo Waves Hello

Sweet Baboo has announced the release of a new album ‘Hello Wave’ on Businessman Records. The album was recorded live (ish) at musicbox studios over 5 days in January 2009 with producer Charlie Francis and a handful of local musicians. It is available at:

http://www.kimberleyrecords.co.uk/
index.php?action=browse&browse_by=referrer&referrer_id=10

Sweet Baboo will be playing a handful of gigs to support the release over the next few months including Welsh dates as follows:

27 Jun 2009 Gwyl Pentre Coll North Wales

18 Jul 2009 Gwyl Arall Caernarfon North Wales

26 Jul 2009 Gwyl Gardd Goll North Wales

30 Jul 2009 Spillers Records Cardiff

30 Jul 2009 Buffalo Bar Cardiff ALBUM LAUNCH

21 Aug 2009 Green Man Festival Glanusk

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Tune in, Turn on, drop out
Its Hawkwind at Greenman!

New acts have been announced for this year’s Green Man Festival. Useful additions include Camera Obscura, Euros Childs, Cate le Bon and the very wonderful Sweet Baboo. Also announced are legendary space rockers Hawkwind who have been around in various line ups for over 40 years. Current line up still features Dave Brock who was one of the founding members back in 1969.

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Alela Diane for the Gate

One of Nevada City’s finest singers will be appearing at the Gate Arts Centre in Cardiff on Friday September 11th. This is her first appearance in Cardiff, although she did play a well received set at last year’s Green Man Festival. For more information:

http://www.thegate.org.uk/

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The Zutons – Big in Cardiff

The Zutons will be appearing at this year’s Big Weekend in Cardiff 31 July – 2nd August. Other acts appearing include the very wonderful Leisure Society. For more information:

http://www.cardiff-festival.com/bigw_e.htm

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Toucan Finally Back Up & Rnning

After an absence of nearly 2 years and a few false starts the Toucan has now re-opened its doors on Womanby St just a few doors down from Clwb Ifor Bach. The venue is open Wednesday – Sunday. It has an extensive menu, regular live music and it also has disabled access.

http://www.toucancardiff.co.uk/
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Manics sleeve banned from Tescos!

In a somewhat bizarre move Tescos, Asda, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s have decided that the sleeve for the Manic Street Preacher’s new album ‘Journal for Plague Lovers’ is offensive and cannot be displayed in their shops. The sleeve is from a painting by Jenny Saville and depicts a child with a birthmark.

At newsoundwales we say a ‘plague’ on all their houses - go and buy the CD at Spillers!

One of newsoundwale’s brightest hopes for the future releases a new album June 1st on Erased Tapes Records. ‘Music for Falling From Trees’, is a 30-minute piece, in seven sections, created for a contemporary dance by London-based choreographer Adrienne Hart. Broderick came to the recognition last year with his widely acclaimed album ‘Home’ and will be playing the Green Man Festival in August. For more information:

http://www.myspace.com/erasedtapes

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Jarvis Cocker has been confirmed as the headline for Saturday night at this year’s Green Man Festival. The former Pulp lead singer joins the likes of Wilco, Animal Collective, Emmy the Great, Noah & The Whale and James Yuill as the leading performers at this year’s festival 21-23 August at Glanusk Park.

http://www.thegreenmanfestival.co.uk/
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SFA for Wakestock

Super Furry Animals will be headlining this year’s Wakestock Festival in Abersoch 10th - 12th July. SFA will be appearing alongside such acts as Moby, Pigeon Detectives, Just Jack and Dizzee Rascal. Tickets cost £90 (£115 for camping) and are available:

* Scotland’s reggae soundsystem champions Mungo's HiFi
* Bangor’s very own Afro Funk sensations Drymbago

* The ‘Rave Shack’ providing a journey through dance music, from the freshest jungle and dubstep, to 50’s rock n roll – anything goes.

* The ‘Acoustic Vibrations’ barn has a mellower soundtrack and features Aron Elias, John Lawrence and The Undercover Hippy.

10pm - 3am, £10 on the door

Leicester’s favourite sons, Kasabian have announced a summer show at the Newport Centre on Friday 3rd July. Tickets are priced £22.50 and are on sale now. Meanwhile the band’s release their 3rd studio album ‘West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum’ 8th June.

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This is in response to the granting of planning permission to turn the venues neighbour into a back packer hostel. After the problems experienced by the Point this appears to be a pre-emptive strike by Cardiff music fans unwilling to see yet another vital venue lost from the Welsh musical landscape. The group already has nearly 10,000 online supporters.

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Vetiver added to Green Man

One of newsoundwales’ favourite bands has been added to this year’s Green Man Festival line up. Other acts announced this week include:

Four Tet, Grizzly Bear, Dirty Three, Rodriguez, Andrew Bird, Joe Gideon & The Shark, The Phantom Band, Unicorn Kid, Beth Jeans Houghton, The Leisure Society.
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Cardiff Promoters go Ape!

A group of Cardiff promoters and venues have come together to form the ‘Association of Promoters and Events: Cardiff’. The aim of the group is to act as a point of contact for bodies such as the local authority and the police as well acting as one voice on issues of importance. One of the first tasks the group has set out to achieve is to work towards developing a music strategy for Cardiff.

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The Peth Postponed

The Peth have confirmed to us directly that the gig at the Globe 27th March is definitely not happening. They are, however, hoping to do a pre-Oasis gig prior to their support slot at the Millennium Stadium 12th June. We will keep you informed.

http://www.thepeth.com/
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Bob Dylan will be releasing a new studio album ‘Together Through Life’ on Monday 27th April, the day before he appears in Cardiff. Tracks likely to appear include:

www.bobdylan.com
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U2 for Cardiff

U2 are set to play Cardiff Millennium Stadium again on Saturday 22nd August. This will be the band’s 6th appearance in Cardiff. Appearances so far have been:

www.u2.com
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After having to abandoned plans to re-open on Westgate St, The Toucan club looks set to open up a few yards away on Womanby Street in the old Calcutta club which has recently undergone a £2 million make over. The club hopes to open 21st March and is likely to be called Toucan Bar Acoustic or T Bar.

Meanwhile the reaction to the closure of the Point has lead to calls for a fighting fund to be established and for a star studded benefit gig to raise funds to fight the closure. We are fully behind any attempt to keep this vital venue open and will keep you informed of any news as it happens.

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Whistling Biscuits re-launched

Having played a storming set at last year’s Workhouse Festival and supporting Ben Ottewell, Whistling Biscuits will be launching their new line up with a couple of gigs in Cardiff over the next few months. They will be playing at Tafod on Saturday 21st March with Plymouth band Willie & the Bandits and Bristol band Hip Route. You can also catch them at 10 Feet Tall in Cardiff on Sunday 12th April.

http://www.myspace.com/whistlingbiscuits

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Green Man Festival 2009
first acts announced

The Green Man Festival tickets are now on sale and the first batch of acts has been announced. We are particularly pleased to see that the brilliant Peter Broderick (see this month’s interview) will be appearing alongside Bon Iver and Brighton’s Peggy Sue. Other acts announced include:

Grammy award winners Wilco, Wooden Shjips, British Sea Power, Errors, Megson, Pivot, It’s A Buffalo, She Keeps Bees, Golden Animals, 6 Day Riot, No Thee No Ess, Sound Carriers and Martin Carr.

Tickets are available (£115 full price, £99 students, teen 13-17 £50 and children 12 and under are free) at www.thegreenmanfestival.co.uk
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Cardiff venues:
the news goes from bad to worse

First of all it was announced that Simon Kingman has abandoned his plans to re-open the Toucan Club on Westgate Street due to noise restrictions. Then came the news that shocked and saddened the music community of Cardiff; The Point has gone into liquidation. The reasons given are the debts caused by the work undertaken to reduce noise levels and credit problems and it has closed with immediate effect. Those with tickets already purchased have been advised to seek a refund form their credit card company.

NSW comment: The number of venues in Cardiff has more than doubled in the last 10 years and with the current economic climate it is probably not surprising that some would be unable to carry on. That it has happened to the best venue in Cardiff makes it all the more tragic. All we can hope for is that a buyer is found who will re-open the venue as a going concern rather than being turned into yet more apartments or stand empty like its near neighbour the Coal Exchange. Perhaps the likes of Rhys Ifans or Kelly Jones can make use of their hard earned cash and make an investment that would probably pay off handsomely in the long run.
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The Metamorphosis of Radio Luxembourg

Radio Luxembourg, one of Wales most interesting indie bands have changed their name to Race Horses. This has come about due to the re-launch of the radio station of the same name online and any possible confusion or legal action that might result. According to Meilyr from the band:

“We all instantly really took to the name Race Horses and felt it captured the enthusiasm and energy that we’re feeling at the moment. We have a new drummer, and a new record that will be out very soon. Also we’re releasing a 7” single in May.”

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Green Man Festivals Tickets back on sale

Having sold out of their early bird tickets before Christmas the Green Man Festival tickets are back on sale on Monday 23rd February. This year the festival takes place 21st – 23rd August and we will be bringing you regular updates as the line up is announced over the months ahead. If our technology holds out we will also be bringing you a daily update/review during the festival itself.

http://greenman.ticketline.co.uk/
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Wales invades London

To celebrate St David’s Day a galaxy of indie Welsh supremos are appearing at a 2 day extravaganza in London. They will be appearing at the ICA 27th Feb and the day after @ the Lexington in London. The mini festival is called ‘Wales Uber Alles’ and includes many of the best indie performers Wales has to offer.

Friday 27th February 2009, ICA, The Mall, London, SW1Y 5AH
Derwyddon Dr Gonzo, Sibrydion, Richard James, Sweet Baboo, Truckers Of Husk and Colorama, plus DJ sets from Mike & Joe Kruger, Huw Evans and Huw Stephens

Saturday 28th February 2009, The Lexington, Pentonville Road, London, N1 9JB
Threatmantics, The Joy Formidable, Cate Le Bon, Spencer McGarry Season, Fredrick Stanley Star and Silver Gospel Runners, plus DJ sets from Mike & Joe Kruger, Huw Evans and Huw Stephens

http://www.ica.org.uk/Wales%20Uber%20Alles+18909.twl

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Two Blues icons for the price of one

B.B.King and British blues legend John Mayall will be playing at the Cardiff Arena on Saturday 27th June. King undertook a farewell European tour in 2006 so these UK dates have come as something of a surprise. At the age of 83 this is almost certain to be the last time he appears in Cardiff. So if you missed him in 2006 then get your tickets now or live to regret it.

For reasons unknown the Enemy have moved their gig due to take place at the Newport Centre on Thursday 16th April to Cardiff University instead. If you have already purchased tickets these should still be valid for the Cardiff gig or alternatively contact the box office for a refund.
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Super Furry Animals Spring into Action

SFA will be releasing their 9th studio album on Rough Trade with a digital release 16th March and in the shops 13th April. This will be the band’s 9th studio album and is the follow up to 2007’s ‘Hey Venus’. According to their website:

"Musically it's based around riffs and grooves we've been playing around with over the last few years. We have enough now for a whole album so even though it's still very melodic we thought we could leave off the acoustic ballads for the time being."

The title of the album has not yet been announced but a provisional track listing includes:

1.'The very best of Neil Diamond'
2. White socks/Flip Flops.
3. Inaugural Trams.
4. Sounds Familiar.
5. Cardiff in the sun.
6. Where do you wanna go?
7. LLiwiau LLachar.
8. Mountain.
9. Moped eyes.
10. Inconvenience.
11. Crazy Naked Girls.
12. Earth.
13. Prick.
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John Martyn loses his fight against poor health.

The message on his website was brief:

“With heavy heart and an unbearable sense of loss we must announce that John died this morning.”

Martyn’s health had been poor for many years and his right leg was amputated in 2003. It was during the 1970s that Martyn made his best work with albums such as ‘Solid Air’, ‘Inside Out’ and ‘One World’. Some of his best loved songs were “May you never”, “Over the Hill”, “Solid air” and “Big muff”.

Martyn played in Cardiff only a few months ago and was awarded an OBE in 2008.

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Headline gig for Gareth Pearson

Guitar wunderkid Gareth Pearson has his first Cardiff headlining gig on Wednesday 25th February at the Globe, Albany Road, Cardiff.

Gareth is probably the best acoustic guitar player in Wales and is still only 20. If you are a fan of fine guitar players prepare to be amazed and if you have spent years practising trying to become a half decent player prepare to watch and weep. He is a virtuoso.

http://www.theglobecardiff.com/
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Mark E. Smith (longtime leader of the Fall) and Ed Blaney (former Manager and long time friend of Smith’s) will be appearing at the Point, Cardiff Bay on Wednesday 25th February. The duo released an eponymous album last year which contains the typical sardonic humour of Smith, but is musically quite different to the Fall – more acoustic, reflective and includes ‘found sounds’.

Peter (as he is now calling himself) Doherty will be playing a solo show at Cardiff University on Friday 13th. Tickets are on sale 23rd January. Doherty’s solo album is out 16th March.
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Welsh Promoter ‘Coffeebar Music’
re-launches in Cardiff

Aberystwyth’s Coffeebar Music have relocated to Cardiff and will be holding their first night in Cardiff on 13th February at the Gate in Keppoch Street, Cardiff. For more information about Coffeebar Music go to: www.coffeebarmusic.com
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Peter Broderick plays Clwb Ifor Bach

One of the best albums of 2008 was Peter Broderick’s “Home” and the track “And it’s alright” came 10th in our tracks of the year. Peter will be playing Clwb Ifor Bach in Cardiff on Friday 6th February and will be supported by the Gentle Good. Definitely not to be missed.

Most of the venues are a bit slow this time of year but Cardiff’s Globe on Albany Road is kicking the year off well with over 20 gigs this month alone. Highlights include a short notice gig by Jimi Alexander & the Satellites on January 7th and The Coal Porters (ft ex-Long Ryder Sid Griffin) and superb Cardiff duo Zervas & Pepper on January 21st. More info at www.theglobecardiff.com
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Our Playlist for 2008

So here it is after much sifting and sorting we have come up with 50 tracks that have made up the soundtrack to our year. Lists of this type are always fairly arbitrary and there are dozens of other tracks we could have added. However, our favourite new band of 2008 without a shadow of a doubt was the Fleet Foxes and for once the hype did not disappoint. The album is great, but our favourite Fleet Foxes track so far is “Mykonos” from their Sun Giant EP. Although released before, it was actually recorded after the album so it bodes well for future recordings. Hopefully 2009 will see the band performing in Wales – Green Man festival headliner for Saturday night in 2009?? We can but hope!

50. Gaslight Anthem – The 59 sound

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Davey Graham has died at the age of 68 from cancer. Graham was one of the most influential guitarists of his generation and although he never received the fame or riches that others achieved his impact has been immense. He discovered/developed the DADGAD guitar tuning and fused styles from Africa and the East. For many he is one of the founders of ‘world’ music.

Newsoundwales had been I touch with Davey Graham’s website and had planned a feature on his life and work which was due to include some feedback from Davey himself. It is extremely sad that the article that was intended to celebrate his life and work will now be a tribute.

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John Cale, one of the founders of the Velvet Underground has been invited to represent Wales at next year’s Venice Biennale. He will collaborate with other artists and poets to produce an audio visual piece said to be influenced by the Welsh language. Cale, 66 said “surprised and honoured as I was to be asked to contribute to the Welsh presentation at the Venice Biennale of Art 2009, it was also a challenge that I eagerly accepted.”

John Cale was born in Garnant in 1942 and after studying the viola in London he left for New York to work with John Cage amongst others. He co-founded the Velvet Underground in 1965 and after leaving the band he released a series of classic LPs such as ‘Paris 1919’ and ‘Fear’. He has produced many artists over the past 4 decades including the debut LPs from Patti Smith and Jonathan Richman.

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Billy Bragg & Devon Sproule announce Welsh tours for 2009

Sometimes we are lucky if an artist performs one gig in Wales let alone undertakes a tour. However, next year we already have 2 tours of Wales by 2 major artists to look forward to. Billy Bragg will be marking the 25th anniversary of the miner’s strike by touring Wales next June. Bragg – soon to be Lord Bragg of Bridport? – was a staunch supporter of the miner’s during the strike and played many benefits and rallies during the year long dispute. Dates are:

June 5 – BLAENAVON, Workmens Hall.

Devon Sproule up and coming alt country singer will also be touring Wales and as a bonus will be supported by Rod Thomas, our artist to watch for in 2009. Dates are:

8th May – Miners Institute, Blackwood

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Bob Dylan Announces Cardiff Date for 2009

His highness is gracing us with his presence yet again next year when he appears at the Cardiff Arena 28th April. Tickets are now on sale priced £40 which compared to others in his league seems a reasonable price. An ideal Christmas present for the Dylanologist in your life?

http://www.bobdylan.com/#/tour

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The much missed Toucan Club run by Simon Kingman will be re-opening as a 400 capacity venue next year at the old Glamorgan staff club on Westgate St in Cardiff. The venue, which will also host a restaurant, has license restrictions that will limit the venue to acoustic/folk music. With Cardiff seemingly getting new venues on a weekly basis this is a welcome return to a much missed venue. The restriction may also work to its advantage providing, as it will, a niche in the market place and could become the leading folk/unplugged music venue in Cardiff when it opens its doors next year.
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newsoundwales names it’s music
artists for 2009:

After much discussion and deep thinking we are pleased to announce that Neath’s Rod Thomas has been named as our Welsh music artist to watch out for in 2009. This wasn’t an easy choice as there have been so many great new bands and singers emerging this year such as Sweet Baboo, 9Bach and Cate le Bon. However, all things considered we believe that Rod has incredible potential and with his appearance at SXSW (South by Southwest) due in March we believe he will be making a significant impact in 2009. When we gave Rod the news he told us:

“It means a lot to get support from home, so being selected for this recognition by the site is amazing news. There's so much music happening in Wales right now that just about breaks through, it's great that more people are trying to champion home grown talent. In the next year I'll be putting out a mini-album of singles so far, finishing the album proper, and doing some tracks with Boom Bip from Neon Neon as well as touring more and hopefully a good run of festivals again like last year.”

Other artists we are recognising this year include Brighton’s Peggy Sue as best new British artist (non-Welsh). We were very impressed by their appearance at the SWN festival we think they are hugely talented both as songwriters and performers and will definitely be making waves next year.

Finally, on the international front we picked up on Chad Vangaalen from Canada this year and although he has been recording for a few year’s his recent CD ‘Soft Airplane’ (see review section) is a fantastic recording and that is why we have selected him as our best new international artist for 2009. We will be having a feature on Chad early in the new year. ..............................................................................................................

Mitch Mitchell dies in Portland, Oregon.

Mitch Mitchell, Jimi Hendrix & Noel Redding – PHOTOGRAPH BY GERED MANKOWITZ copyright: BOWSTIR Ltd. 2008/mankowitz.com

We were saddened to hear about the death of Mitch Mitchell, the last remaining member of the Jimi Hendrix Experience, in Portland, Oregon this week. Mitch was one of the most respected drummers from the 1960s having played with the Pretty Things, Riot Squad and Georgie Fame amongst others before joining the Experience in 1966 shortly after Hendrix arrived in the UK. Mitchell had a jazz background and this gave his drumming style a fairly unique edge. Together with Noel Redding they provided the perfect backing for Hendrix.

We are planning an interview in the new year with legendary rock photographer Gered Mankowitz and we asked him this week for his memories of photographing Mitch and the Experience.

“It is very sad about Mitch - and he was so young! I do remember that during this shoot the guy's all wanted to look mean, sexy & moody, but every time Mitch attempted that sort of look it just didn't happen because he had such a sweet, boyish face, and consequently everybody burst into laughter each time he tried!”

(Gered Mankowitz www.mankowitz.com)
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The Real Poet Laureate comes to Wales!

The legendary John Cooper Clarke, who has opened for the Sex Pistols, Joy Division and appeared with Nico at St David’s Hall back in the 1980s, will be playing at the Point 27th March. Definitely not to be missed.
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10 Feet Tall served with Noise Abatement Order

Word has reached us that one of Cardiff's newest and most exicitng venues has been served with a noise abatement order. This has caused difficulties with forthcoming live gigs including the SWN festival in November. Bands due to play at the venue for the festival are to be switched to an alternative venue. More info as we get it.

Thompson family invade Cardiff in January

Not one but 2 Thompsons are playing Cardiff in January. Following Teddy Thompson's gig at the Glee Club 20th January, his Father Richard Thompson will be appearing at St David's Hall 26th January. Having stolen the show at this year's Green Man festival you are advised to get your tickets early.
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Two New Venues for Cardiff

Cardiff sees the launch of 2 new venues this month with the old Globe cinema on Albany Road transformed into a 350 capacity live music venue. First gig is Michelle Shocked November 8th which bodes well for its choice of acts. www.theglobecardiff.com

Meanwhile an 800 capacity venue SUB29 is being launched across at Millennium Plaza by the people behind the now closed Coal Exchange. Forthcoming bands iclude the Alabama 3 1st December and the Futureheads 8th December.
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Killers for Cardiff

Almost 2 years to the day after their last appearance in the city, the Killers will be playing Cardiff Arena 28th February 2009. Tickets are on sale on Friday 10th October. Meanwhile their long awaited album "Day & Age" is out 25th November.
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SWN Fest line up revealed

Huw Stephen's SWN Fest have announced the names for this year's festival taking place 13-16 November throughout Cardiff.

. James Yuill
. The Pipettes
. Stephen Fretwell
. The Chapman Family
. Martin Carr
. The Boy Least Likely To
. Rolo Tomassi
. Clinic
. Tubelord
. Dananananakroyd
. Indian Jewelry
. Volcano!
. Agaskodo Teliverek
. The Lovely Eggs
. Serefina Steer
. Pete and the Pirates
. The Big Pink
. It Hugs Back
. Jay Jay Pistolet
. Peggy Sue
. Skátar
. Fanfarlo
. The New Tea Party
. Legowelt
. Heavenly Records DJs
. Young Marble Giants
. Genod Droog
. High Contrast
. Goldie Lookin' Chain
. Euros Childs
. Future Of The Left
. Truckers of Husk
. The Joy Formidable
. Jamie and The Lionhearts
. Gallops
. Sweet Baboo
. Duffraine
. The Last Republic
. Rod Thomas
. Gwyneth Glyn
. Threatmantics
. Huw MM
. The Afternoons
. Fred Jones
. Eilir Pierce
. Llwyd
. Danblagroyd
. Picture Books In Winter
. Zwolf
. The Ash and The Oak
. Butterflies With Beards
. Friends Electric
. Random Elbow Pain
. Right Hand Left Hand
. Little Eris
. Radio Luxembourg
. Lifting Gear Engineer
. Pagan Wanderer Lu
. Hemme Fatale
. Wrightoid
. Georgia Ruth Williams
. Alex Dingley
. Little My
. The Muscle Club
. Pixelh8
. Seindorff
. The School
. JT Mouse
. Valley Lines, Orcop
. The Hidden Persuader
. Frederick Stanley Star
. Attack + Defend
. Nia Morgan
. Lindsey Leven
. Acid Casuals
. Dig! with B-Music DJs Carl Forecast and Huw Evans

Tickets are now on sale £45 for the weekend at Spillers and online www.sebon.co.uk
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Soft Hearted Scientists new album due

One of our favourite Welsh bands are due to release a new CD in October. "Scarecrow Smile" will be available as a download from 27th October and will be released as a CD later in the year.

www.softheartedscientists.com

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Teddy changes date for Blunt

Teddy Thompson has rescheduled his forthcoming date at the Cardiff Glee Club in order to support James Blunt on his forthcoming tour (Teddy is this a wise move??). He will now be appearing at the Glee Club 20th January 2009. For those that can't wait that long and who can face seeing him with James Blunt, he will be at the Cardiff Arena 3rd October.
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Neon Neon @ WMC

Neon Neon are set to play the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff 2nd November. This could be the Welsh gig of the year.
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Mercury Prize Nominees announced

This year's list of nominees has been announced. Welsh interest with Neon Neon's "Stainless Style".

Who do we think should win? - Neon Neon or Laura Marling.

Who will win? - Probably Robert Plant & Alison Krauss or The Last Shadow Puppets.

Full list is:

Adele "19" (she's come a long way fast since playing Cardiff's Buffalo Bar last summer)

British Sea Power "Do You Like Rock music"

Burial "Untrue"

Elbow "Seldom Seen Kid"

Laura Marling "Als I cannot swim"

Neon Neon "Stainless Style"

Portico Quartet "Knee deep in the north sea"

Rachel Unthank "The bairns"

Radiohead "In rainbows"

Robert Plant & Alison Krauss "Raising sand"

The Last Shadow puppets "The age of the understatement"

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What's the Point of soundproofing

Following much anguish amongst music fans across South Wales, the Point has agreed to undertake sound proofing. work will be carried out in August at a cost of approximately £50,000. Worth very penny if it keeps this vital venue open.
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Space Studios Launch 'Space Lounge'

Cardiff's space Studios have launched an intimiate eveing of acoustic gigs at highlighting local talent. Gigs are recorded and then subsequently available on youtube. Artist featured so far include Sweet Baboo and Jessie morgan. Intimitate and limited - can you get an invite to this hottest ticket in town?