Well, it’s December 1st and Christmas is on its way. For me though, this date marks something rather special on my calendar. Today celebrates 1 year since I started ‘Becky and the Bands’, and what a year it has been!
What was just an idea in my head and a burst of enthusiasm, has grown to become something I could never have imagined. Beginning writing with nothing other than an incredible love of music, putting my thoughts out there was very scary! Yet I received such an overwhelming amount of love and support from you all, and every day since, I remain in complete awe at how much positivity and warmth you continue to show me. I cannot put into words how sincerely grateful I am. ‘Becky and the Bands’ has provided not only amazing opportunities, but also wonderful friendships, experiences and a complete adoration for the music industry.
We are all aware that 2020 has brought unprecedented challenges on the world, but there is no denying that it has hit music so earth-shatteringly hard. However, despite all of the chaos brought upon us. We continue to support, nurture, and provide for one another. Showing bold bravery in the face of uncertainty, and an unbreakable bond — That has brought us all even closer together, despite being so far apart.
Music lives within each and every one of us. It is our passion, and our comfort. It keeps us busy, and calms us down. It is our livelihood, and our lifeline. Music may not be playing as loud as we would love it to be heard right now, but if you listen close enough, then you’ll realise that WE are music. We play the instruments, plug in the speakers. Our voices, our words and our passion are what keep us going right now
Writing has been a tremendous help to me over the past year. Discovering and celebrating brilliant new music, getting to know so many lovely musicians, working with the most incredible companies, publications and individuals. Music has opened my heart to an entirely new outlook on life. However what it has shown me the most, is how hardworking, dedicated and inspiring music, and everyone who is a part of it, really is.
A huge THANK YOU to you all!
Your support this year has meant the world to me, and I’m so grateful for you!
Happy 1st Birthday
Becky and the Bands
I wanted to celebrate the amazing musicians I have written about this year!
The most experimental and groundbreaking of his work to date. Dan Bettridge has made a fierce return to music, in the run up to latest EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’ Lyrically immersing himself in new depths, whilst musically reaching new heights. Bettridge has boldly tread into unexplored territory, harnessing newfound vocal effects, an array of…
With just over a month to go until the release of highly anticipated EP ‘Good People. Bad Habits.’ Dan Bettridge has gifted us with another slice of what we can expect, in the form of latest single Sign. Following a hiatus from releasing music since 2019. The dawn of 2021 saw the appearance of initial ‘Good People. Bad…
Rona Mac is a musical enigma nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire, West Wales. Wind swept by the sea, and mysteriously combed by the countryside. Debut album Sheelah was nothing shy of mesmerising. Aching with earnest acoustics, laced against licks of fierce, raw lyrical honesty. Rona Mac set our souls alight with an untamed DIY approach, that resulted…
As Spring bursts into bloom, our favourite queen of hearts Rebecca Hurn returns with her stunning single, Panic. Due for release on 30th April, but available to pre-save now. The single is a follow-up to the gorgeously festive Something About Christmas and October’s mesmerising Love Like This. Written among the bustling romantic boulevards of New York City, almost 2 years to the…
Mr Bewlay is an eccentric musician, determined to re-define everything that we know about music. From the bright and bubbly Her Name is Juniper to the sombre piano ballads of Fake Yourself. Bewlay is shaking off genres and shaking up our eardrums. Yearning that we explore as many new sounds and styles as possible. Proudly…
An EP from Welsh indie-quintet Campfire Social has been highly anticipated for some time now. Following the stirring buzz that swarmed from singles released throughout 2020 and early 2021. Latest EP release ‘Everything Changed’ encapsulates the excitement and intoxicating energy that has exuded from their music. Taking a big bite out of 90s emo-pop, with a heady…
Expanding on their impressive indie sound. Latest single ‘Early Dreamer’ sees Cardiff-based Twin Stranger introduce a refreshing twist on the genre, with a reflective and brooding, yet melodic breakaway track. As waves of psychedelic rock and power pop burst through, creating music that is both vibrant and immersive. Opening lyrics battle the ever-tempting pull between…
After a hiatus from releasing music, Swansea favourites Trampolene return with rousing spoken-word track ‘Come Join Me In Life’. Fronted by Jack Jones, Trampolene are certainly not a band to shy away from. Boasting music that is unapologetically loud, outspoken, and bold. This 3-piece have garnered a reputation for packed-out, reckless, and brilliant live shows. …
A fresh face in South Wales’ indie music scene, singer-songwriter Alcie Bela is mystifying. Perfectly pairing dark witted lyrics, to a delicate acoustic folk sound. The musician is currently recording her upcoming EP at a studio deep within the heart of Welsh woodland. Ensuring the seeds of her kindled earthy spirit are sown. As debut single ‘Don’t…
Horizons are set to embark on their Independent Venue Week Tour of Wales. Between the 25th-31st of January prepare to be enthralled by exciting sets from the incredible new Horizons prodigies, as well as performances by many other Welsh bands, including special appearances from Holding Absence and Junior. As sessions from the artists are streamed…
Despite the unprecedented challenges that 2020 has brought upon music, I have been incredibly inspired by the continued efforts of musicians and the entire industry. Those who have dedicated so much of themselves to creating. Doing all that they can to bring joy, in the darkest of times. To celebrate their unwavering determination, I am…
2020 has seen Phoebe Green literally “Reinvent” herself. From a striking new single in July, to her current EP release. The Manchester based singer-songwriter has awoken a new persona, and she is certainly not one to be messed with. Possessing flame orange hair, and a dark witty humour, Green is flourishing. All while raining a glorious revenge…
Stepping out of the flamboyance and fun of previous release ‘Her Name Is Juniper’. For new double-A side ‘Fake Yourself’, Mr Bewlay takes on the far more somber role of an eccentric lone pianist, and the results are nothing short of sublime. Stirring vocals and soft piano keys entrance, with Bewlay knowing just how to…
Cradling tender emotion in the palm of their hands, is a skill that Cardiff indie-pop band Rosehip Teahouse have completely perfected. Boasting a back catalogue of gorgeously cathartic music. Latest EP ‘Fine’ merges old and new tracks, entwining memories, thoughts and feelings into just shy of a blissful 15 minutes. Swooning vocals from lead singer…
Horizons Cymru have announced the Welsh musicians and record labels, awarded funding from the Horizons Launchpad 2020. The 33 chosen Welsh artists/record labels awarded funding: Aleighcia ScotEadythFaithFoxxgloveHakoHemesHigh Grade GroovesHVNTERIfan PritchardK(E)NZKingkhanLeila MckenzieLos BlancosMace the GreatMadiMaguguMalan JonesMass AccordMawpitMinasMonique BPhoenix RiseRazkidRecordiau JigcalRona MacSomething Out of Nothing RecordsSonny Double 1SwannickSywel NywSZWEThalloThe Honest PoetTraxx This year has seen Horizons’ most…
Frosty nights, cosy firesides, mulled wine, and mistletoe. December is here, Christmas is fast approaching, and serenading us this festive season is the gorgeous new single ‘Something About Christmas’ from Welsh singer-songwriter Rebecca Hurn. ‘Something About Christmas’ is mesmerising in its entire composure. From tender emotive pangs, to cosy Christmas references. With vocals as soft…
Bold and charismatic, an intoxicating charm blazes from the flamboyant powerhouse and emerging talent, that is Mr Bewlay. If personality alone is not enough to draw you in, and I dare anyone not to swoon under the spell of this captivating young musician. Latest single ‘Her Name is Juniper’ is the psychedelic spark that will…
With a passion for supporting emerging musicians. The exciting South Wales based initiative Forté Project, have launched their new application process. Giving six lucky individuals, the chance to join their prestigious talent development project. Previously only available to young musicians from South Wales. Following support from the PRS Foundation and the Arts Council of Wales. The Forté Project…
Punk rock is infamous for its love of rebellion. Rule-breaking, non-conformity and an unwavering bold stance in both style and substance. It is a genre that regularly depicts a state of turmoil, and hits back at society with a vengeance. As global politics and the state of the world at large, are currently tipping the…
Meet the Cheshire band, providing all the bite of a classic rock sound, with an intriguing modern twist. The Moondogz tether gritty instrument playing to moody vocal blues, and latest album ‘What’s Done Is Done’ will spark the curiosity of any classic rock fan, and grab the attention of all who dare to listen. No…