Musical first quarter of 2007
Gruff Rhys’ second solo album, Candylion, was released in February. I’ve really enjoyed this record, Gruff’s brand of mellow psychedelia really hits the spot. Favourite tracks include Beacon in the Darkness and the extremely catchy Gyrru Gyrru Gyrru. Looking forward to seeing Gruff live at All Saint’s Church next month. From what I’ve heard it sounds like a great show. The support (Cate Le Bon & 9Bach) don’t sound too bad either.
Gruff isn’t the only Welsh singer-songwriter who has released an album recently. Euros Childs’ second record Bore Da is a collection of Welsh language pop tunes and a damn fine collection at that. Euros’ third album, this time in English, is due in the summer. Two of the musicians who appear on Bore Da are from the Welsh band Radio Luxembourg. These guys released their third record, the Diwrnod Efo’r Anifeiliaid (A Day With The Animals) EP, in March. If you’re a fan of SFA and the Gorky’s you should get hold of a copy of this record, it’s excellent. If you’re not a fan of SFA or the Gorky’s you should still buy it, it’s that good. Hopefully an album is in the pipeline.
The Aliens also released their debut album in March. The Aliens were formed from the remnants of one of my favourite bands of the last 10 years, The Beta Band. Astronomy For Dogs is a good first effort and I’m looking forwarding to their rescheduled gig in June. They were excellent when I saw them last November.
Neil Young’s archive series continues to grow. The most recent instalment is a solo performance from Massey Hall in 1971 (Trailers). Every Neil Young fan should own this, it’s a fantastic recording. The sound quality on the DVD is outstanding, almost eerie. Make sure you buy the DVD version, there’s some good stuff on there.
As well as The Aliens and Gruff Rhys gigs I also have King Creosote and James Yorkston lined up. Tomorrow it’s Bob Dylan at the Metro Radio Arena! It’ll be the first time I’ve seen Bob. Excited is an understatement.